Power steering is standard on nearly every car and truck in Gig Harbor, Washington these days. Now there are some exotic, new types of power steering systems, but for the most part, the general setup is a pump that's driven by a belt powered by the engine.
Contact the automotive professionals at Mackert Automotive in Gig Harbor for questions about your power steering.
The pump generates power that assists car owners as they steer their car, truck, SUV around Gig Harbor, Washington. Power steering systems use hoses to move pressurized fluid back and forth. These hoses can develop leaks so it's a good idea to have your Gig Harbor service professional inspect them at every oil change.
A check of the power steering fluid level is on the list for every full service oil change at Mackert Automotive because low fluid can damage the power steering pump. And the fluid needs to be compatible with the hoses and seals, so it's important to use the correct type - just ask your service professional at Mackert Automotive.
In addition to providing boost, the fluid cleans, cools and lubricates the power steering system. Over time, the lubricants and detergents diminish so Gig Harbor motorists need to replace their old fluid with clean, fresh fluid periodically.
Excess moisture can collect in the power steering fluid as well. That can lead to rust and corrosion as well as reduce the effectiveness of the fluid. Many manufacturers outline power steering service intervals in the owner's manual. Unfortunately, this vital service is sometimes left off the maintenance schedule. For Gig Harbor car owners who are not sure, every two years is a good rule of thumb.
At Mackert Automotive, we use a detergent to clean the system, flush out the old fluid and replace it with new fluid.
Now, if you are experiencing high steering effort, erratic power assist, loud whining coming from the pump you may have a power steering problem. Another sign for Gig Harbor drivers is having to frequently top off the fluid.
Holding the steering wheel to the far right or left for more than a few seconds at a time can wear your pump out real fast. AutoNetTV wants you to be sure to service your power steering system regularly at your service center or Mackert Automotive in Gig Harbor to keep you headed in the right direction.
Mackert Automotive
3416-B 57th ST CT NW
Gig Harbor, Washington 98335
253-851-3307