Here's why:
* Increased Steering Effort: Without power steering, steering becomes significantly harder. This is especially dangerous at higher speeds, during parking maneuvers, or in emergency situations where quick steering is required.
* Risk of Loss of Control: The increased effort can lead to fatigue, making it difficult to maintain control of the vehicle, especially in challenging driving conditions.
* Potential Damage: Driving with a faulty power steering system can damage other components, potentially leading to a more severe problem and higher repair costs.
What to do if your power steering fails:
1. Pull over safely: Find a safe place to stop as soon as possible.
2. Assess the situation: Check the fluid level in the power steering reservoir. If it's low, add fluid (if safe to do so). If the fluid is low and you can't add more, or if there are other issues like a leak, call for assistance.
3. Don't try to fix it yourself: Unless you are a trained mechanic, it's best to leave the repair to professionals.
4. Contact a towing service: Get your car towed to a qualified mechanic.
Important Note: Even if your power steering system seems to work, it's crucial to have the issue diagnosed and repaired as soon as possible to prevent potential safety risks.
