2007 Jeep Compass Power Steering Pump Noise
How to Tell If Your Power Steering Pump Is Bad
September 17th, 2020 by
You may believe your power steering pump is performing flawlessly. Yet, there are many symptoms of a bad steering pump. If you cannot identify the warning signs of a defective steering pump, the pump may malfunction. In this instance, you will no longer be able to steer your car safely.
What Is a Power Steering Pump, and Why Is It Important?
A power steering pump ensures fluid reaches a car's power steering system. It consists of a slotted rotor that rotates and allows fluid to enter the pump; once fluid enters the rotor, it continues to rotate and moves the fluid to discharge ports. At this point, the fluid enters a reservoir in the power steering system, where it helps the steering gear apply the proper amount of pressure to turn the wheels smoothly.
Like other car components, a steering pump is prone to wear and tear. If the pump is not properly maintained and stops working correctly, it can hamper your ability to steer your car. Worst of all, a defective steering pump can put you, your passengers, and other motorists in danger.
How to Tell If a Power Steering Pump Is Bad: 5 Warning Signs You Need to Know About
The symptoms of a bad steering pump include:
1. Your Car Makes a Whining Noise Any Time You Turn the Wheel
If your car makes a whining noise when you turn the wheel, there may be a leak in the power steering pump. Or, the power steering fluid level may be low.
Power steering making noise is something all motorists want to avoid. To minimize the risk of hearing your car's power steering whine, you should check your steering fluid level and top it off as needed. If your steering fluid is at a sufficient level, you should take your car to a certified technician.
2. Your Car's Steering Wheel Is Slow to Respond
Your car should respond when you turn the wheel. If you notice that your car's steering responds slower than usual, the power steering pump may be faulty. At this time, you may need to have your steering pump replaced.
3. Your Car's Steering Wheel Is Stiff
A steering wheel can become difficult to turn if your power steering pump is failing. When this occurs, you should take your car to a certified technician who can check out the steering pump and fix or replace it as needed.
4. Your Car Makes Squealing Noises When You Turn the Key in the Ignition
Squealing noises can happen when you start your car if your vehicle's power steering pump is bad. They can also arise when you try to make sharp turns in your car. In either of these instances, get your car inspected by a certified technician who can determine if the steering pump is faulty.
5. Your Car Makes Groaning Noises
Groaning noises are loud and distracting, and they must be addressed immediately. They may occur due to a faulty power steering pump or other car issues. Fortunately, a certified technician can assess your car, find out why these noises are occurring, and mitigate them right away.
A defective power steering pump cannot always be prevented, but there are many warning signs associated with this problem. If you can identify these issues quickly, you can resolve them before they significantly hinder your ability to steer your car.
Got In a Car Accident? Fix Auto Can Help
All Fix Auto locations offer a wide range of auto body repair services. If you experienced the mishap of an accident, steering pump related or not, use our store locator to find the closest Fix Auto near you, or call us at (800) 463-6349.
This blog post was contributed by Fix Auto Chatsworth, a leading industry expert and collision repair shop servicing northwestern San Fernando Valley and the surrounding areas in Los Angeles County.
2007 Jeep Compass Power Steering Pump Noise
Source: https://fixautousa.com/blog/signs-of-bad-steering-pump/