Q: power steering not working

asked by on August 08, 2016

I've been having problems with misfires on my cylinders – 3 different ones. After taking it to the repair garage I only had 1 misfire in my first cylinder. Now my power steering seems to be failing. While I am driving I feel a tug on my steering wheel. I drive OK then all of a sudden my power steering stops functioning causing my steering wheel to lock up and forcing the wheel into the direction needed. I would have to tug at my wheel - left and right – to stay in control. This has almost caused an accident! I got a diagnostic check, but nothing came up regarding the power steering. They flushed out my old fluid and replaced it with new fluid. I still have the same problem. Help please. Thanks.

You probably know this already, but I must mention that driving with the faulty power steering is very dangerous. This is definitely not an issue that can wait. The trouble could be in the power steering pump, belt/tensioner, or steering rack. Since you mention the previous mechanic was unable to find and fix the misfire, and unable to find and fix the power steering issue, it may be time for a new mechanic to take a look at the situation. A certified professional from YourMechanic can come to your car’s location to diagnose your power steering system and let you know exactly how to best proceed.

The statements expressed above are only for informational purposes and should be independently verified. Please see our terms of service for more details

Get an instant quote for your car

Our certified mechanics come to you ・Backed by 12-month, 12,000-mile guarantee・Fair and transparent pricing


Experienced Mechanic?

Earn up to $70/hr

What others are asking

What Is a Strut?
A strut, also known as a MacPherson strut, named after Earle MacPherson, the engineer who developed this type of suspension, looks like a big tube-style shock absorber (https://www.yourmechanic.com/article/how-long-does-a-shock-absorber-last) and uses the upper part of the strut as a steering pivot,...
How do I adjust the fan speed?
The fan speed can be adjusted to any one of seven speeds. To adjust the fan, press the up or down buttons on the fan switch. The fan speed will then be shown on the display, so you know what...
Sugar in gas tank.
Hello. I am so sorry to hear that this has occurred, as it can be a very expensive repair. If the vehicle has not been ran since this occurred then the fuel tank needs to be removed and cleaned. If...
Transmission slipping at low speeds
Transmission issues such as this can be caused by something as simple as low transmission fluid. I would first recommend checking the level and condition of your transmission fluid as low fluid levels are one of the main causes of...
Low fluctuating oil pressure when engine is cold and noisy lifters when driving over 50 miles an hour
There are several causes for low oil pressure (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/oil-pressure-light-is-on-inspection). They include components such as crankshaft bearings, to things like an oil filter or pump. A leaking o-ring will cause some issues, mostly related to low oil levels. The oil passages...
Rough idle on cold starts
When the engine is cold, the engine coolant temperature sensor must be working properly to signal the PCM to enrich the mixture on cold start. If there is a fault with that sensor, you can experience rough idle idle as...
I have no cabin heat, just blows out cold air. The engine doesn’t overheat and it seems like fluid is coming out of the radiator c
If coolant has to be added more than once per year, there is a leak. To find the leak that exists in your case, and get the required repair estimated, please request an engine cooling system leak diagnostic (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/coolant-is-leaking-inspection) and...
Engine cuts off
Engine heat can degrade components such as ignition coils and the crankshaft position sensor. The components will then fail once they are hot. There are other possible causes of the stalling, too, such as the fuel pump relay opening or...

Related articles

Symptoms of a Bad or Failing Power Steering Control Valve
Common signs include leaking power steering fluid, difficulty steering, or a whining noise while you are turning corners.
How Does Car Steering Work?
A steering wheel is linked to the front wheels of a vehicle, and varies according to the type of steering the car has.
How to Remove a Stuck Cylinder Head Bolt
Head bolts on the cylinder get stuck and must be removed using a breaker bar, applying impact force, or by carefully drilling the bolt out.