As a car owner, you know how important it is to properly maintain your vehicle. However, the basis of proper car maintenance starts with understanding all crucial components of your car and how they impact your car’s overall performance. If you can figure out what a component in your car does, maintaining and fixing it wouldn’t be a big problem.
Just like a couple of other components, the power steering
pump is a major part of your car’s steering system. But what exactly is a power
steering pump? Power Steering is the component that is responsible for
providing hydraulic pressure to assist in turning the wheels. In a nutshell,
the power steering pump is the reason why you can easily steer your car. Without
it, steering becomes a laborious task, making your vehicle difficult and unsafe
to drive.
In this article, we'll take a closer look at power steering
pumps, how they work, and all that you need to know to keep them in good
condition.
What is a power steering pump?
A power steering pump is a component of your vehicle's power steering system that provides you with easier steering ability through the application of hydraulic pressure. Its entire aim is to ensure that drivers maintain ease of driving even while driving heavy vehicles or hauling a ton at low speeds. The pump will deliver the required pressure that compensates for the need for power.
Power Steering Pumps are typically driven by the crankshaft belt. Drawing fluid from a reservoir, with enormous pressure, it pushes the fluid through the steering system to allow drivers to turn their steering wheels, just as they want.
However, the power steering pump doesn’t only work with fluid pressure. It can also be integrated with the refrigerant compressor and can be electrically driven. Electric power steering works with the car’s electrical system, controlled by transmissions from torque sensors and the impact of the electric motor.
Where is the power steering pump located?
The power steering pump is usually located at the front of the engine. You can find it close to the belts because they are driven by a belt that is connected to the crankshaft. Close to the power steering pump, you will find rotors, vanes/hoses, pressure relief valves, and a reservoir.
However, you must understand that the location of the power steering pump might vary in different vehicles. The drivetrain of the vehicle, car generation, and type of steering pump fitted determines the location of the power steering pump.
Power Steering pumps are easier to find in older cars than in newer models. The position might also vary for front-wheel and rear-wheel drive cars.
Compared to
hydraulic pumps that are fitted on the engine bay for easy bleeding of the
fluids, electric-assisted steering pumps are located close to the steering
column. It is advised that you read the car’s manual to figure out where the
power steering pump is located.
How a Power Steering Pump Works
Let’s dive deep into the mechanics behind a Power Steering
Pump
As we’ve already established, the power steering pump supplies pressurized hydraulic fluid to the steering rack. This fluid helps to reduce the amount of effort required to turn the steering wheel, making it easier for the driver to control the car. But, how do power steering pumps create pressure that sustains car control? Irrespective of the different types of power steering pumps available in the market, the mechanics of a power steering pump are almost similar for all.
To create pressure, the power steering pump utilizes a
centrifugal force that pressurizes fluid by driving them through tiny outlets,
at high-speed rotations.
Let’s start from the basis!
If you’ve noticed, your power steering pump runs with a steering fluid that is stored in a reservoir. The steering fluid reservoir has the word “Power Steering Fluid” boldly written on it.
The reservoir holds fluid and distributes it to the steering pump through hoses when necessary. Immediately you start your car and your engine starts running, the reservoir starts supplying fluid to the pump.
It is important to mention that cars are designed in a way that the steering pump is connected to the crankshaft via the engine belt and this runs through the steering pump pulley. So, when you start your car and your engine belt pulls towards the steering pump pulley, the pump starts spinning.
When the steering pump starts spinning, the rotational effect
builds up pressure that pressurizes the fluid before they are transferred to
the steering rack. When the steering pump starts rotating those tiny holes on
the pump start contracting, and just like the laws of physics start, when the
surface area reduces, pressure increases.
These tiny chambers are where the vanes rest, but instead of a uniform circle shape, they are designed in an oval form that allows the fluid to spin into a tiny space to increase pressure. As the pressure increases, the trapped fluid in the chambers is passed through the pressure control valve right into the steering rack.
In the steering rack, there are two hydraulic
chambers; the right one and the left. The distribution of hydraulic fluid is
not the same for both sides of the hydraulic chamber. The right side gets more
steering fluid when you want to turn to the left because when there is more
fluid in the right chamber the steering rack tilts towards the left.
This delivery of fluid to the hydraulic chamber is known as
power assists, and that’s the major reason why your car’s steering wheel feels
lighter when you want to turn in any direction, especially if you have a power
steering system.
After the turn is completed, and power assists are fulfilled,
the fluid leaves the steering rack through the hose and goes back to the
reservoir, only to return when the driver wants to make a turn.
What are the different types of Power Steering Pumps out there?
There are three types of Power Steering Pumps; Vane Power
Steering Pump, Roller Power Steering Pump, and Slipper Power Steering Pump.
These power steering pumps are designed to run on any of the three-power
steering pump systems; Hydraulic Power Steering, electric power steering, and
hydroelectric power steering.
A Detailed Comparison of Vane Power Steering Pump vs Roller Power
Steering Pump vs Slipper Power Steering Pump
|
Power Steering Pump Type |
Vane Power Steering Pump |
Roller Power Steering Pump |
Slipper Power Steering Pump |
|
Design |
The rotor is housed in an oval- or
elliptical-shaped housing where it turns. Vanes fitted to the outside
diameter of the rotor sit against the housing walls as the rotor turns. |
Wide V-shaped grooves cut into the side of the rotor allow steel rollers to ride along the inside contour of the pump. The pump is contained in an oval-shaped housing within the pump body.
Centrifugal force pushes the rollers to the oval’s outer edge where they trap
fluid, similar to the way the vanes catch the fluid in a vane pump. |
Rotor is housed in an elliptical-shaped chamber that rotates within the body of the pump. Fitted into wide slots on the rotor are springs that are topped with scrubber-type “slippers.” The
springs keep the slippers in constant contact with the wall of the pump. As
fluid enters into the pump, pressure is built up and released to drive the
power steering system. |
|
Advantages |
Quieter than other types of pumps. More efficient than other types of pumps. Most Common Type of Power Steering Pump. Easy to Repair. Inexpensive |
More durable than
vane pumps. Can handle higher pressure than vane pumps; more efficiency. |
Quieter than roller pumps. More efficient
than roller pumps. Can handle higher pressure than roller pumps. |
|
Disadvantages |
Not as durable as other types of pumps; prone to wear and tear. Less efficient, shorter lifespan |
Louder than vane pumps, more expensive |
Not as durable as roller pumps; more
complex, more expensive |
|
Operation |
Uses vanes to move
fluid |
Uses rollers to move fluid |
Uses a slipper ring
to move fluid |
|
Application |
Passenger cars, light trucks |
Heavy trucks, buses |
High-performance vehicles |
1. Vane Power Steering Pump
The vane power steering pump is the most common type of power steering
pump. It
features a rotor that is housed in an oval or elliptical-shaped compartment.
Fitting on the outside diameter of the rotor, Vanes sit against the housing
walls.
Just as
the power steering fluid is entering the vane pump, it is trapped between the
vanes, housing wall, and rotor. Pressure is increased in this process before it
is pumped out through the different openings. In conclusion, the operation of
the vane power steering pump sees the vanes pushing fluid through the system.
PROS
·
Quieter
than other types of pumps.
·
More
efficient than other types of pumps.
·
Most
Common Type of Power Steering pump.
·
Easy to
Repair.
· Inexpensive
CONS
· Not as durable as other
types of pumps; prone to wear and tear.
· Less efficient
· Shorter lifespan
2. Roller Power Steering Pump
The roller
power steering pump features a wide V-shaped groove design
that cuts through the side of the rotor allowing steel rollers
to move inside the contour of the pump. Similar to the vane
power steering pump, the roller power steering pump is housed in an
oval-shaped compartment.
The
Roller Power steering pump maximizes centrifugal force to push the
rollers to the oval’s outer edge where they catch, trap
fluid, and increase pressure in fluid just as the Vane Power steering pump
does. The pressurized fluid is pushed through the openings in the pump, running
straight to the power steering system.
PROS
· They are more efficient
than vane pumps.
· They have a longer lifespan
than vane pumps.
· Handles More Pressure
· More Durable
CONS
·
They are
more expensive than vane pumps.
·
They are
more difficult to repair than vane pumps
· Louder than Vane Pump
3. Slipper Power Steering Pump
The slipper power steering pump is similar to vane
and roller pumps in the process of releasing pressurized fluid, however,
the operation differs. The slipper pump consists of a rotor that
rotates within an elliptical chamber housed in the pump body.
Contrary
to fitting by the side, the slipper power steering features a unique
design that sets it apart from other power steering pumps. It utilizes springs
on its wide slots and scrubber-type "slippers" on top to position the
rotor. The springs ensure that there is continuous contact between the slippers
and the pump wall. Just as fluid is entering the
pump, pressure is created, and distributed to power the steering
system.
PROS
·
They are
more efficient than roller pumps
·
They
have a longer lifespan than vane pumps.
·
Quieter
than roller pumps.
·
Can
handle higher pressure than roller pumps.
CONS
·
They are
more expensive than vane pumps
·
Not as
durable as roller pumps
·
More
complex, hence difficult to fix
Symptoms of a Failing Power Steering Pump
Here are some of the common signs that indicate that your power steering
pump is failing:
1.
Whining or squealing noises when you start
the car or try to turn the steering wheel
2.
Difficulty turning the steering wheel
3.
Leaking power steering fluid
4.
Vibrations or shaking in the steering wheel
5.
Dashboard warning light for power steering
system
6.
Power Steering Fluid changes color; Grayish
Colour
It is important to mention that the power steering pump operates
continuously while the engine is running. Considering its continuous operation,
there are chances that the pump will develop leaks, become worn, or fail due to
lack of maintenance. If you notice any of these symptoms, you must contact a
professional mechanic to get your vehicle checked. We wouldn’t advise driving
with a faulty power steering. On no account should you do that. There are lots
of potential dangers attached to driving with a faulty power steering pump.
Here are some of the dangers of driving with a faulty power steering
pump:
1.
Reduced or Loss of Control of the car
2.
Inability to steer the car, still/slow
response to steering
3.
Increased difficulty in avoiding accidents
4.
You will need to apply much force and energy
to turn your car
5.
Damage to other components of the car
Tips for Maintaining your Power Steering Pump
To keep your power steering pump in good condition, it's important to
follow these best practices:
1.
Check power steering fluid levels regularly
and top up as needed
2.
Have the power steering system flushed and
the fluid replaced according to your car manufacturer's recommended schedule
3.
Inspect the power steering belt for signs of
wear or damage and replace it if necessary
4.
Check for leaks in the power steering system
and have them repaired promptly.
5.
Inspect the filters and replace them at least
after one year.
6.
Inspect the pump regularly, replace it
immediately if you notice any damage.
By following these simple steps, you will maintain your power
steering pump, extend its lifespan and avoid costly repairs.
Replacing a power steering pump can be a costly and time-consuming
process. It is essential to ensure that you are purchasing a quality pump that
will last. A reputable mechanic can recommend a suitable replacement pump if
you have no idea how to get one.
What should I do if I notice any signs of a failing power steering pump?
If you notice any signs of a failing power steering pump, it is essential to get your vehicle checked out by a professional mechanic. Replacing a power steering pump can be a costly and time-consuming process. It is essential to ensure that you are purchasing a quality pump that will last. A reputable mechanic can recommend a suitable replacement pump and provide advice on how to maintain it properly.
Can I repair a power steering pump?
Yes. You can repair a power steering pump, but this depends on the
cause, extent of damage on the pump, and cost of repairs. Most times, it is
advisable that you simply replace the steering pump when you spot damage.
You might not know, but it is cheaper to replace a faulty power steering
pump than try to fix it. However, there is no harm in trying to repair it. Some
Power steering pump-related issues that a repair can work on instead of
replacement include leaks, clogs, vibrations in the steering wheel, grinding
noise, etc.
You must understand some perceived power steering pump problems do not
mean that the power steering pump is bad. You might just be low on fluid, so
the first thing you must do is to have your car inspected. Don’t forget to seek
the help of a professional. If your power steering pump needs to be replaced,
it's important to have the job done by a professional mechanic.
Can you drive with a bad power steering pump?
Driving with a failing power steering pump is not recommended. It is
very dangerous to do so and you will have difficulty with controlling your
vehicle. This might not end well for you, especially in emergencies. If you
notice any signs of a failing power steering pump, it is essential to get your
vehicle checked out by a professional mechanic as soon as possible.
How do I know if my power steering pump is good?
If you're wondering whether your power steering pump is in good
condition, there are a few signs you can look out for.
Your power steering pump is good if any of these applies:
1. You have a smooth and quiet steering experience
If your steering wheel feels stiff or makes strange noises when you turn
it, there’s a chance that your power steering pump is failing.
2. No unusual noise in your steering system
If unusual noises are coming from your vehicle, you should suspect a bad
power steering pump.
3. Colour of your Power steering fluid
Good power-steering fluid should be clear, amber, or pinkish in color.
If the power-steering fluid is brown, black, or even gray, it is bad or has
been contaminated with bits of rubber from connecting hoses, seals, or O-rings.
4. Fluid Level
If your steering fluid level is low then there’s a chance that your pump
is failing This can be caused by leaks or other underlying causes in the steering
system.
Can I drive without power steering?
Yes, you can drive without power steering. However, it will require more
effort and strength to turn the steering wheel, especially at low speeds. It is
important to note that driving without power steering is not illegal, but it
can be a dangerous adventure. especially in emergencies. Driving without a
power steering raises safety concerns and also adds stress to other major
internal components of your vehicle.
CONCLUSION
A power steering pump is a crucial component of your vehicle's
steering system, responsible for making steering easier and smoother.
Understanding how it works and what signs to look out for when it starts to
fail can save you time, and money, and prevent accidents on the road.
Regular maintenance and inspection of your power steering pump can ensure your vehicle stays safe and reliable for years to come. We believe this article has helped you learn more about your power steering pump and ways to keep your car running smoothly.
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