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 Meineke’s team to learn more about what a flush actually entails.

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 Meineke and have our professionals figure it out.

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.

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 Meineke today.

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 Meineke location and let them know what you’re driving; they can give you a more individualized and specific estimate, including both labor and parts.

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 Meineke team to set up an appointment and have your steering issues diagnosed and repaired.

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 Meineke service team.

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.

Power Steering & Chassis Repair

Frame Straightening

Technicians know the ins and outs of every part that makes the chassis operate: shocks, struts, sway bar, and torsion bar. A vehicle's chassis is generally characterized as the bottom frame, yet it also includes the vehicle's running gear that creates movement. The transmission, engine, differential, driveshaft, and suspension are critical to the chassis' operation. Frame straightening might be needed.

Chassis Repair

Sometimes only a minor repair is needed to bring the chassis back to proper functionality. In other instances, more serious repairs are necessary. Technicians will make sure to check your vehicle's driveshaft, CV joints, universal joints and axles during the vehicle inspection.

Power Steering Repair

If you are experiencing steering problems, have a technician check your power steering column for leaks and other faults. They can also perform a power steering flush and inspect the belts to ensure proper tension. If one component of the power steering system is not functioning as designed, the performance of the vehicle can be easily compromised.

Unsure Steering & Car Chassis Issues?

Be sure to bring your vehicle to your local Meineke Car Care Center at the first sign of any steering problems. A trusted technician will make any necessary repairs and ensure your car is handling safely and properly.