QuestionHi
I have honda Civic 1995. Today morning to get started to my office I found my steering to be hard to move, it was like very difficult take the turn. I am just wondering why has this happened suddenly. Is this because of cold weather here in New York that the steering oil got frozen. I am not sure? But what I observed was that when I kept the car for idling for 5-10min than it got smoother to move the steering. Can you tell me if there is any problem with the steering or not?
Thanks
Saurabh
AnswerHello Saurabh and welcome to AllExperts!
Firstly, I would suggest you check your power steering reservoir to ensure you have the proper level of fluid. Assuming it has, then the following info should help.
Most all vehicles today use power assisted steering to help make it easier to turn the steering wheel. Without power steering, you would need to wrestle with the wheel at slower speeds and when making sharp turns.
The system requires a power steering pump, driven by the engine via a belt to hydraulically deliver pressurized hydraulic fluid to either side of the steering mechanism. This pressurized fluid pushing on the steering mechanism helps to steer the car and reduces steering effort.
When the weather is cold, the belt is more likely to initially slip and make the pump less effective. Until warm, the fluid is much thicker (more viscous) and makes the pump work harder and takes longer to send fluid to the steering mechanism, causing reduced capability and greater hesitation when turning the wheel. If the level of fluid is low, it will exasperate the conditions listed above.
During extreme conditions, warming the engine for 3-5 minutes before travel should solve this issue. It is doesn't, I would suggest you contact your dealer or mechanic to have the system checked, as dirt, grime or air in the hydraulic power steering system, warn belt or faulty pump could be the problem.
I hope this has helped Saurabh. Have a great day!
Terry
