6 Tips on How to Maintain the Power Steering So It's Not Easily Damaged
Driving comfort comes from various factors and components. However, one of the main factors comes from the power steering components in the steering wheel. With optimal power steering conditions, steering control when turning or reverse parking will be smoother.
Therefore, Drivemate needs to carry out regular power steering maintenance. However, before that, let's first find out a more in-depth explanation regarding power steering and its functions through this article!
What is Power Steering, its Functions and Types?
Power steering is a component in a car's steering system that uses mechanical or electronic technology to allow the driver to turn or maneuver more easily. Without power steering, the driver needs to exert quite a lot of force to turn the steering wheel. Especially, when driving at low speed.
There are 3 types of vehicle power steering, namely hydraulic, electric and electro-hydraulic power steering. Hydraulic power steering works by utilizing hydraulic fluid and a pump. Meanwhile, the second type uses electric and electro-hydraulic motors, which is a combination of the two previous technologies. Despite the differences, these three types of power steering have the same goal, namely reducing driver fatigue and making vehicle control easier.
6 Tips for Maintaining Power Steering
To make driving safer and more comfortable, Drivemate can apply the following 6 tips to keep the power steering in optimal condition.
1. Avoid oversteering and understeering
Oversteering is a condition where the rear wheels lose traction while maneuvering. Meanwhile, understeering is when the front wheels lose traction. Usually, this phenomenon occurs when the driver uses high speed when turning.
To avoid this, Drivemates must practice smooth maneuvers. Then, to be safer, also check the condition of the tires and other systems such as gas control, braking system and the like.
2. Do not use the steering wheel roughly or aggressively
Driving aggressively can have a long-term negative impact on the car's engine, including the power steering system. Because turning the steering wheel roughly can cause components such as valves, gears and hoses to wear out more quickly. If there is damage, you will need to pay quite expensive repair costs.
3. Check the car's electrical system and battery
Car batteries play a very important role as a power source for electrical processes in vehicles. This electrical system will also have a central role in driving the power steering. Without an optimal battery and electrical system, the power steering cannot carry out its function.
Therefore, always check the electrical system and car battery when Drivemate is carrying out routine service at the workshop. There are no patent provisions for how many times you are required to carry out service. However, as a rule of thumb, Drivemate should service your car every time the vehicle reaches 10,000 km or every six months.
4. Check system for leaks and pressure
Just like tires or other car components, power steering can also experience unexpected leaks. These leaks can reduce fluids, such as hydraulics. Also check several components in the power steering such as fittings, hoses and pump to ensure there are no leaks.
5. Check the fluid
Apart from external components, liquid components such as fluid systems (hydraulics), must receive routine maintenance. The trick is to make sure the fluid is never empty. If there is little liquid left, add it immediately to avoid damage.
6. Check the steering rack rubber
The steering rack rubber is an important component which plays a role as a link between the power steering steering assembly and the wheels. Poor rubber conditions can cause leaks. One sign that the steering rack is damaged is a strange sound when the steering wheel is turned. If there are any indications, it should be replaced immediately.
By regularly paying attention to the condition of the important components above, the Drivemate car's power steering can work optimally. Apart from that, comfort and driving will be more guaranteed. If you want your Drivemate driving experience to be safer, make sure that other components such as tires are of the best quality. You can easily get the best tire products at Dunlop. Come on, find out which Dunlop tire products are most suitable for your favorite Drivemate car here!