Have you ever tried arm-wrestling a
gorilla? Or tried pushing a truck without tires, just wheels?
Driving with a failing power steering pump isn’t a funny experience. It feels like pushing a cart without wheels or arm-wrestling a gorilla. None of which we will advise.
When your car's power steering pump starts spoiling, it can feel like you're muscling your vehicle through every turn and twist in the road. It's a workout no one signed up for, and it begs the question: Can you still drive with a bad power steering pump? Vehicles are designed to drive with a power steering pump and this ensures ease of movement and easy steering and turns. You can drive for short distances with a bad power steering pump but we strongly advise that you don’t drive for far too long.
There's a chance that you can drive for short distances with a bad steering pump, but the risks and limitations are overwhelming. You might incur huge damages or cause an accident because you are having a hard time steering your vehicle. Whenever you notice that your car has developed a bad steering pump, it is important that you fix it immediately.
In this article, we'll explain the dangers of driving with bad power
steering and how long you can survive with a bad steering pump.
Can you still drive with a bad power steering pump?
Yes, you can still drive with a bad power
steering pump. However, it is not advisable. Driving with a bad steering pump will cause increased difficulty especially when you try to take turns or swerve through obstacles. There's a chance that you can drive home with a bad power steering pump, but the safety risks involved isn't something we will want you to encounter.
Your car has a power steering system to ease your steering ability and guarantee more precise turns. When the pump fails, it becomes harder to steer your vehicle especially at lower speeds. As a driver, this can weaken you, or cause a loss of control of the vehicle. Aside from the strain driving with a bad power steering pump can place on you, it can also damage other components of your car. This includes components like your power steering rack, serpentine belt. All of which will lead to more costly repairs.
How long can you drive with a bad power steering pump?
You can drive with a bad power steering pump for a short time. But it can lead you through a long distance if you are driving on a straight road without speed bumps, obstacles and turns. Driving with a bad power steering pump is quite risky, but how long you are drive with that depends on a lot of factors. Instead of trying to find out how long you can drive with a bad power steering pump, we will advise that you change your power steering pump immediately you notice that it is failing.
There's no set mileage or time frame for how long
you can drive with a bad power steering pump, but you should understand that continual usage of a bad steering pump can damage other components of your car.
What happens if you don't fix a power steering pump?
There are lots of things that can happen when you don't fix your power steering pump. As your power steering pump gradually starts falling, you will notice a certain level of increased difficulty in your ability to steering your vehicle. Turning the steering wheel will become a herculean task especially when you need it most. Aside from the chances of running into an accident, this can also cause premature wear of your steering rack, seals, hose, gear, belts and even pulleys. This will increase the chance of fluid leaks from these worn and damaged areas.
Here is a list of more things that can happen
if you don’t fix your power steering pump:
1. Steering wheel difficulty
2. Squealing or whining noises when turning the steering wheel
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the signs of a failing power steering pump?
The signs of a failing power steering pump include difficulty steering, unusual noises when turning the wheel, steering wheel vibration, and fluid leaks under the car. If you notice any of these signs in your car, there is a chance that you have a bad power steering pump. Contact a professional immediately
Is it safe to drive without power steering?
No. It is not safe to drive without a
power steering. While it is possible for you can drive without a power steering, it is not safe to do so. Driving without the power steering system
requires more effort to steer. This difficulty poses grave danger and serious risks to other road users.
Can a bad power steering pump cause damage to other car components?
Yes, a bad power steering pump can cause damages to other components of your car. A bad steering pump can increase wear and tear on the steering rack and belts. With time, this can
cause additional damage to the steering system.
How much does it typically cost to replace a power steering pump?
The cost to replace a power steering pump
can vary widely depending on the make and model of your vehicle. It should cost you between $200 to $600 to replace a power steering pump. This includes the cost for the parts and labor. To get the best pricing for power steering pump replacement, contact a mechanic or dealership near you.
Can I replace a power steering pump myself?
Yes, you can replace your power steering pump yourself. All you need is mechanical experience and the necessary tools. Replacing a power steering pump yourself will require a lot of experience and expetise, but if you are sure that you are up to the task, go for it.
CONCLUSION
You see...
Driving with a bad power steering pump isn't something that we will want you to do. No matter what your driving experiences are, even if you drive as good as Vin Diesel of the Fast and Furious, do not attempt driving with a bad steering pump. Are you in Houston, and you want to understand the process behind hiring car accident attorneys? We've written an article to guide you through that.