Power Steering | 3 Signs Your Power Steering Fluid Reservoir Is Damaged

Posted on: 9 June 2016

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Your power steering system is vital when you want to exercise complete control over your car while driving. When you turn the steering wheel, the pump pushes power steering fluid into the system to enable seamless movement. For your system to be fully functional, power steering fluid must be at optimum levels at all times. A faulty power steering fluid reservoir will cause fluid levels to fall, resulting in driving problems. Look out for these signs of a damaged fluid reservoir and get it fixed immediately.

Leaking Fluid From The Reservoir

One of the most common signs of a faulty or damaged fluid reservoir is leaking steering fluid. This is usually seen on the ground below your car and can be misconstrued as some other fluid. Power steering fluid is usually clear if new and turns to an amber colour when older. It has a distinctly sweet smell in comparison to other fluids in your car. Keep in mind that this fluid is flammable, so you will need to head to a professional mechanic immediately if you notice a leak. If the leak is beyond repair, then the reservoir will need to be replaced completely.

Steering Becomes Hard

If you find it difficult to steer your car because of unresponsiveness, then your power steering fluid reservoir is probably damaged or broken, which is blocking the proper transfer of fluid through the steering system. Hard steering could also mean that the fluid level is too low within the reservoir. Since it may be hard for you to diagnose the exact source of the problem on your own, you may want to leave the inspection and repair job to a professional mechanic. If the reservoir is damaged, it will be replaced. If the fluid level is too low, it will need to be refilled.

Steering System Makes Noises When You Turn

Your power steering fluid reservoir is probably failing when you hear noises coming from the system while you turn your steering wheel. The reservoir may break down completely because of a pressure drop in the system. The pressure typically drops when air gets into your power steering system because of a crack somewhere. If the power steering reservoir has broken down, then a professional mechanic will need to check to see whether it can be repaired or needs a complete replacement based on the extent of the problem.

If you notice any of these signs of a damaged power steering fluid reservoir, be sure to take your car immediately to a qualified professional to prevent a small problem from turning into a costly nightmare later.