Steering Service & Maintenance
Turning the steering wheel of your car seems simple, but a lot happens between your steering wheel and your car’s tires. This complex system relies on a number of processes in order to function properly. Nearly all vehicles today come with power steering, but if this system fails, it quickly becomes a safety issue. Typical steering and suspension services include wheel alignments, shock and strut repair and front and/or rear suspension repair.
Stabilizer Bar Service & Maintenance
Also known as a sway bar, the stabilizer bar is an important component responsible for keeping your car from rolling over while turning. Whereas the shock absorber keeps the ride smooth, the stabilizer bar keeps the car upright when it is turning by spreading weight equally over the tires.
The steering and suspension system is very intricate, so it’s important to have work done by a trusted technician. It contributes to the overall quality of your ride, but it is also integral to your vehicle’s safety. Keep up with regular maintenance and inspections, and make sure to address any problems right away.
Steering Suspension FAQs
Q : How often do you need to change power steering fluid?
While there is no hard and fast rule here, many experts agree that your power steering fluid should be flushed somewhere between every 30,000 and 60,000 miles. Additionally, be alert to any signs of dirty fluid or noise coming out of the power steering—a good indicator that it’s time for a fluid change. Contact RobsAuto team to learn more about what a flush actually entails.
Q : What are the different types of power steering fluid?
There are a number of different power steering fluids to match different hydraulic steering systems—and if you plan to replace your fluid, it’s important to know which type of fluid you should be using. Often, you can find out by consulting your owner’s manual. If your manual doesn’t specify, you might contact the local dealership, or simply bring your car to RobsAuto and have our professionals figure it out.
Q : What are the symptoms of a bad power steering pump?
There are several telltale signs of a bad power steering pump—among them: You hear noise while turning the wheel; the wheel is sluggish in its response; the wheel seems stiff or difficult to move; you hear a squealing sound when the engine starts; or, you notice groaning noises. The latter is the worst of these warning signs—and it may even indicate total system failure from a lack of fluid.
Q : How many miles does a power steering pump last?
There is no real lifespan for power steering pumps, but in general, they’re made to last a good long while. Many motorists will get at least 100,000 miles out of their power steering pump. If you are concerned about your power steering pump failing, at any mileage, we invite you to make an appointment with the service technicians at RobsAuto today.
Q : How much does it cost to fix a power steering pump?
Unfortunately, it’s hard to provide an exact quote for this service, as it can vary wildly depending on the type and age of your power steering pump. The best way to find out is to call your local RobsAuto location and let them know what you’re driving; they can give you a more individualized and specific estimate, including both labor and parts.
Q : Why is the steering wheel hard to turn?
If your steering wheel is difficult to turn, there could be a few different reasons for it. Some of the most common reasons include a bad steering rack; a broken serpentine belt; leaky power steering fluid; the failure of your power steering pump; or fluid that’s too thick and needs to be flushed out. Call the RobsAuto team to set up an appointment and have your steering issues diagnosed and repaired.
Q : Can power steering freeze up?
While it is uncommon for power steering fluids to completely freeze, they can become thicker and more sluggish at lower temperatures. If you find that your power steering fluid has thickened, and it makes your wheel difficult to turn, you may want to flush the system, replacing it with new fluid. For help with any of this, don’t hesitate to call your local RobsAuto service team.
Q : Why is my steering wheel shaking while driving?
There are a number of potential causes of a shaky steering wheel. These potential causes include unbalanced wheels; misalignment of your vehicle and its wheels; bad bearings on the wheel hubs; suspension issues; or even problems with your brakes. It’s definitely something to take seriously, and to have checked out by a trained service tech at Meineke.