When your car’s steering becomes tough and unresponsive, it most likely means the power steering has failed and can make driving in any situation risky. Any problem, either old-style hydraulic or new EPS systems, can negatively affect the car’s handling and safety.
Since more than 75% of new cars in India today use EPS systems, especially in compact SUVs and sedans, learning about the signs of failure, what causes them and how to repair them is necessary. Not addressing early problems in your car can result in hefty repair bills or the loss of steering.
Let’s understand how to identify early issues in your car, pinpoint what’s causing the failure, and fix it the right way so you can drive safely and confidently.
Power steering is a system designed to reduce the physical effort required to steer a vehicle, especially at low speeds or during tight manoeuvres. Introduced back in 1900 by Robert E. Twyford and popularised by Cadillac in 195, PE or power steering is classified into three types:
This is an older type of power steering which uses a hydraulic pump that is usually connected to the engine belt, moves power steering fluid and assists the steering of a car. Even though it works well, it makes the car use a little more fuel because the engine is always under load.
How it works: When the driver turns the steering wheel, the hydraulic pump sends pressurised fluid to help turn the wheels.
A hybrid of the old and new. An electric motor moves the hydraulic pump, which improves efficiency and puts less stress on the engine than traditional HPS.
How it works: Same as HPS, but the pump is powered by an electric motor.
EPS uses an electric motor, which is placed on the steering column or rack instead of hydraulic parts. It costs less to run, needs less attention and features helpful things like lane assist and automatic parking.
How it works: Steering input is detected by sensors, and the electric motor provides the necessary assistance in real-time.
Spotting early signs of power steering trouble can save you from sudden failures and costly repairs. Here’s what to watch for:
If you find it unusually hard to turn the wheel, especially at low speeds, your power steering system may be compromised. This is often the first sign.
High-pitched noises when turning the steering wheel usually indicate low fluid levels or a worn-out pump in hydraulic systems.
Puddles or drips of reddish or brownish fluid under your car may indicate a power steering fluid leak, commonly from hoses, seals, or the reservoir.
If your steering works fine at times and suddenly becomes hard, it might be due to electrical faults in EPS systems or a slipping belt in hydraulic setups.
Modern cars with EPS often show a steering wheel icon or EPS warning light when the system detects a fault. Never ignore this alert.
Understanding the root causes helps in better diagnosis and faster fixes. Below are the most common culprits:
1. Low or Leaking Power Steering Fluid (HPS/EHPS):
Fluid is essential for hydraulic systems. Low levels can cause stiffness, noise, and pump damage. Leaks usually stem from worn hoses or seals.
2. Worn-out Pump or Motor:
A failing hydraulic pump or EPS motor won’t provide sufficient assistance, leading to a heavy steering wheel or erratic operation.
3. Damaged or Loose Belt (in Hydraulic Systems):
If the belt driving the pump is frayed or slipping, it affects pressure generation. This results in a whining noise and reduced assist.
4. Faulty Steering Angle Sensor (EPS):
The steering angle sensor helps EPS systems determine how much assist is needed. A malfunction can cause incorrect or no assistance at all.
5. Electrical Issues or Blown Fuses (EPS):
Since EPS relies on electronic components, a blown fuse, faulty wiring, or a weak battery can instantly knock out the entire steering assist system.
6. Contaminated Fluid or Clogged Filter (HPS/EHPS):
Dirt, metal shavings, or water in the fluid can reduce lubrication and damage the pump or rack. A clogged filter restricts flow and pressure.
Whether you’re dealing with an old-school hydraulic setup or a modern EPS unit, early diagnosis is key. Here’s how to narrow down what’s going wrong:
The first step is to pop the hood and check the power steering fluid reservoir. If the level is low, fill it with the suggested fluid and inspect if any leaks are present. If the drive belt in a hydraulic system is cracked or loose, it may not be tight, which can reduce the system’s pump performance.
Modern vehicles with Electric Power Steering (EPS) are equipped with sensors that log faults. Plug in an OBD2 scanner to check for codes like C1A04, C1231, or C1555, which point to issues like faulty steering sensors, motors, or modules.
A whining sound when you turn the car on typically means there is an issue with the fluid or pump. A clicking or groaning noise may be caused by air in the hydraulic lines, and EPS failures are normally silent unless the motor is having trouble.
If the steering feels stiff at low speeds and becomes easier when you drive on the highway, the fluid or pump could be the problem. If the stiffness does not change and appears and disappears, there may be a problem with your EPS unit or sensor.
Verifying the pump output and checking if the EPS motor is working are both done by using a hydraulic pressure tester and a voltage multimeter. The results from advanced diagnostics help to figure out if the fault is in the steering rack, ECU, motor or fluid system.
Once diagnosed, fixing a power steering issue could be as simple as topping up fluid or as complex as replacing the entire steering rack. Here’s a breakdown:
In hydraulic setups, a loose or damaged belt can lead to inconsistent performance. Re-tensioning or replacing it typically costs Rs. 500–Rs. 1,200.
Here’s how much you might have to pay depending on the issue with your power steering system:
Repair TypeApprox. Cost (INR)Fluid Top-UpRs. 300 – Rs. 700Hose ReplacementRs. 1,000 – Rs. 2,500Hydraulic Pump ReplacementRs. 4,000 – Rs. 9,000EPS Motor ReplacementRs. 8,000 – Rs. 20,000Steering Rack ReplacementRs. 10,000 – Rs. 25,000+Belt ReplacementRs. 500 – Rs. 1,200Tip: Always check warranty coverage for EPS components; they’re often included under extended warranties.
If your vehicle is pulling to one side, has excessive play in the wheel, or you’re hearing clunking noises, the steering rack may be worn out. Replacement becomes essential when:
Prevention is always better than unexpected breakdowns, especially when it comes to something as crucial as steering. Here are simple yet effective tips to keep your power steering system in top shape:
At least once every 5,000–10,000 km, check the level of your power steering fluid and watch for any burnt smell or discolouration. Look for any leaks that may be coming from hoses and connections.
Since Electric Power Steering systems need a lot of voltage, maintain your battery properly. If the battery voltage drops, the motor of the EPS may not function properly, and warning lights could go on.
Avoid holding the steering wheel fully turned (left or right) for more than 5 seconds. It causes the hydraulic system to build up more pressure and the EPS motor to work harder, which leads to more wear.
A minor squeak or stiffness today could mean a pump or motor failure tomorrow. Act early. If the steering column or pump makes whining, clicking or groaning sounds, don’t wait to get a diagnosis.
If your wheels or tyres are not correctly aligned, it causes more stress on the steering rack. It’s important to get your wheels aligned and your tyres checked about every 6 months or when you visit for a service.
Power steering is important for safety, not only for comfort. No matter if you have hydraulic, electric or electro-hydraulic steering, paying attention to early signs and doing routine maintenance can save you from expensive repairs. If you feel your steering is not right, pay attention to it right away. Catching a problem early can stop it from turning into a costly repair. By maintaining it properly and identifying the potential problem, driving will become a safe experience.
Common signs of power steering failure are unusual noises like whining or squealing while turning, hard steering, power steering fluid leaks, varied response during steering, and a vibrating and jerky feel on the steering wheel.
Observe the fluid reservoir found under the hood. Somewhat low fluid levels may reveal a leak. If the fluid looks dark or milky, then contamination may be involved. If it also smells burnt or has some solid debris, consider replacing it.
Depending on the issue, costs can range from Rs. 500 (belt replacement) to Rs. 20,000+ (EPS motor/rack replacement).
Hydraulic systems typically use power steering fluid or ATF. Always refer to your vehicle’s manual for the correct spec.
Begin by visually checking for leaks and fluid levels. Listen for noises as the vehicle is steered, observe steering effort, and check belt condition. For electric systems, use an OBD-II scanner to read error codes.
