What to Do If Power Steering Is Not Working?

Power steering allows you to turn your car via the steering wheel without resistance. If you're having a hard time turning your steering wheel, chances are your power steering isn't working correctly. There are a few approaches you can take to determine what is causing your power steering to fail.

Check the Fluid

  • Check your power steering fluid. Locate the appropriate spot under your hood, using your car's manual if necessary. Refill if necessary. If it needed to be refilled, drive for a while and see if this fixes the problem.

Check the Belts

  • Ensure none of the belts under your hood are broken or loose. A loose or broken belt can cause the power steering pump to stop turning. If the belt is loose or broken, take it to a mechanic shop if you don't have the expertise yourself to fix it.

Check the Pump

  • If the fluid doesn't need replaced and the belts appear unbroken, the pump probably isn't working. Take your car into a mechanic shop. Explain you checked the fluid and belts. A certified mechanic will be able to determine whether your pump needs replacing.