A power steering failure is a serious safety issue that limits your reaction time and reduces your control over the vehicle. This problem occurs regularly in various car brands and can lead to heavy steering, increased tyre wear and dangerous situations in traffic. Owners of models such as the Ford Mondeo in particular report power steering problems that significantly affect the driving experience. In this article you can read how to recognise a fault, what the possible causes are and which steps you should take.
What are the symptoms of a power steering failure
A power steering failure can show itself in several ways. The most striking sign is that the steering wheel feels considerably heavier than normal. You will notice this especially at low speeds, when parking or taking sharp bends. The assistance can also work irregularly, with the steering sometimes turning smoothly and at other times feeling stiff.
In addition to heavy steering, there are other recognisable signs. Strange noises such as squeaking, scraping or rattling while steering often indicate problems with the system. Some drivers notice that their car pulls to one side or feels nervous while driving. In modern cars with electric power steering, a warning message often appears on the dashboard, with the assistance partially or completely failing.
The symptoms usually show themselves most clearly in specific driving situations:
- Parking and manoeuvring at low speed
- Turning the steering while stationary or making sharp bends
- Parking in tight spaces where the steering wheel has to be turned fully
- When starting the engine, as the power assistance is activated
Why is my power steering not working
The causes of a power steering failure vary depending on the type of system in your car. In hydraulic systems, the problem is often with the fluid level. Leaks in hoses, pipes or the steering rack mean there is too little fluid in the system. This affects the pressure build-up needed for smooth power assistance.
A worn or defective pump is another common cause in hydraulic power steering systems. The pump provides the pressure the system needs and, when it does not function properly, the driver will notice this immediately in the way the car steers. Internal wear in the steering rack can also cause irregular assistance and strange noises.
With electric power steering, the causes are often found in the electronics. Possible problems include:
- Defective electric motor that provides the steering assistance
- Fault in the control unit or control software
- Damaged wiring or poor connections
- Sensors that send incorrect signals to the system
Incorrect or contaminated fluid can also disrupt the operation of hydraulic systems. It is therefore important to use only the fluid specified by the manufacturer and to have the system checked regularly.
Is it safe to drive without power steering
Technically, it is possible to drive without power steering, but it is not recommended. The steering becomes significantly heavier, which causes problems especially at low speeds and in emergency situations. Quick steering corrections become much more difficult to carry out, which severely limits your reaction time in dangerous situations.
The increased force you have to apply to the steering wheel can lead to physical fatigue on longer journeys. This reduces your alertness and concentration behind the wheel. In addition, some vehicles may suffer uneven tyre wear due to the heavier steering, which in the long run will bring extra costs.
In emergencies, a lack of power steering can be life-threatening. Evasive manoeuvres to avoid obstacles or other vehicles require far more strength and time, which significantly increases the risk of accidents. It is therefore wise to go to a garage as soon as possible if you have problems with the power steering and have the fault repaired.
What can you check yourself if you have steering problems
If you suspect power steering problems, there are a few things you can check yourself. For a hydraulic system, first check the fluid level in the reservoir. This is usually located under the bonnet and has a minimum and maximum marker. Also take note of the colour of the fluid, which should be clear and not dark or cloudy.
Inspect the area under your car for leaks. Fresh fluid is often reddish or light brown in colour. Also check the hoses and pipes in the engine bay for visible damage, cracks or damp spots. These can indicate leaks that place the system under pressure.
If a warning message appears on the dashboard, it is wise to have it read out at a garage as soon as possible. Modern diagnostic systems can often pinpoint exactly where the problem lies. With electric power steering, the cause is often in the control unit or motor, which can only be traced using specialist equipment.
‘ Preventive maintenance can prevent higher repair costs. ’
What are the repair costs for power steering
The costs of repairing power steering vary greatly depending on the cause and the type of system. For minor issues such as topping up fluid or replacing a leaking hose, the cost is limited to a few tens of euros up to around a hundred euros. These are relatively simple repairs that require little labour time.
For more serious problems, costs rise considerably. Replacing a power steering pump, including labour, often costs between €400 and €800. Replacing a defective steering rack is even more expensive and can rise to €1,000 or more, depending on the model and the availability of parts.
For electric power steering, the costs are often higher due to the complexity of the system. Replacing an electric steering motor or control unit can cost between €500 and €1,500. These repairs also often require more diagnostic and labour time, which further increases the total cost.
Preventive maintenance can prevent higher repair costs. Regularly checking the fluid level, detecting leaks at an early stage and taking warning signs seriously all help to avoid more extensive damage.
When should you go to the garage immediately
Certain warning signs require immediate action. If the power steering suddenly fails completely while driving, drive straight to the nearest garage or safe place. Do not continue to drive with a completely failed system, as this can lead to dangerous situations.
It is also wise to act quickly if a constant fault message appears on the dashboard. This message indicates that the system has detected a problem that affects its operation. Do not ignore this warning and have the car checked as soon as possible.
Other situations that require prompt action:
- Strange noises that are getting worse or are constantly present
- Steering behaviour that is becoming increasingly unpredictable
- Rapidly dropping fluid level despite topping up
- Visible leaks under the car that are getting worse
Do not wait too long before visiting a garage. What starts as a small problem can grow into an expensive repair or a dangerous situation. Early detection and repair saves money and prevents safety issues.
Preventive maintenance for your power steering
Regular maintenance helps to prevent power steering problems. For hydraulic systems, check the fluid level at least once a month and top it up if necessary. Always use the fluid specified by the manufacturer, as the wrong type can damage the system.
While driving, pay attention to any changes in the steering behaviour. A squeaking noise when steering is often an early sign of fluid problems or initial wear. By reacting immediately, you avoid a small issue turning into a major failure.
Have the power steering system checked regularly during services, especially on high-mileage cars or older models. A mechanic can identify wear at an early stage and replace parts before they fail completely. This prevents unexpected breakdowns and higher repair costs.
On the Carnews website you will find much more useful information about car problems, maintenance tips and technical background. Discover more articles about common faults and learn how to maintain your car properly and spot problems at an early stage.
Frequently asked questions
You can recognise a power steering failure by a steering wheel that feels heavy or jerky, strange squeaking or grinding noises when steering and sometimes a warning message on the dashboard. If steering suddenly becomes very heavy, the car pulls strongly to one side or the assistance (partially) drops out, you must take immediate action. In that case, drive as calmly as possible, avoid sharp steering movements and have the system checked in a garage as soon as possible.
The most common causes are power steering fluid that is too low or leaking, a worn or defective pump or steering rack and, with electric power steering, a fault in the motor, control unit or wiring. You can check the fluid level yourself, top up with the correct fluid and look around the system for leaks. You can also have any error messages on the dashboard read out to identify an electrical fault. In practice, repairs to the pump, steering rack or electronics should be left to a garage.
Continuing to drive with a power steering failure is generally not advisable, because the steering becomes much heavier and fast evasive or corrective manoeuvres are more difficult and therefore less safe. In electric systems, the assistance can also suddenly fail completely, which is risky especially in bends or when swerving. In addition, in some circumstances, continued driving can cause extra damage to the pump, steering rack or electrical components. Therefore have the car checked as soon as possible and, if you really have no other option, only drive short distances and very calmly.
Regularly check the level and quality of the power steering fluid and always top up using only the recommended type. Have the system periodically checked for leaks, wear on the pump and steering rack and unusual noises when steering. React immediately to early symptoms such as steering that occasionally feels heavier or squeaking noises, instead of continuing to drive with them. Have electrical faults read out and rectified straight away, so that the electric motor and control unit are not further damaged.
Hydraulic power steering uses a pump and oil under pressure; wear, leaks and contaminated fluid are the main causes of faults and require regular checks of the level and for leaks. Electric power steering uses an electric motor and sensors, has no oil or pipes and therefore less risk of leaks and usually less periodic maintenance. With hydraulic systems, you often notice problems from noises and the steering gradually becoming heavier, while electric systems are more likely to show fault codes and warning lights and sometimes fail (partially) and abruptly. With electric power steering, maintenance shifts more towards diagnosis using diagnostic equipment and checking the electronics instead of the mechanical and hydraulic components.