What Causes Your Mini Cooper Power Steering System to Fail in Tolleson? Today, only a few vehicles running on the road have manual steering systems because modern cars like Mini Cooper have advanced power steering systems that can reduce the steering effort by controlling the car and provide you a comfortable drive. Moreover, the power steering system is using hydraulic pressure for assisting the driver while taking turns. Throughout the process, it can turn your car with ease with a small movement with one hand. While driving the Mini Cooper on Highway, it can help you to take U-turns and sharp corners without putting much effort. As it is a mechanical component, so it can be failed due to many reasons. Here are a few of them with other details.
Types of the power steering system According to the make, model, and year of the vehicle, the power steering system is categorized. The following points define it briefly:
Hydraulic power steering system In general, the hydraulic power steering system is using the hydraulic pressure from the power steering pump to perform the necessary function. Moreover, these pumps are delivering the power steering fluid to the steering gear for its smooth functioning.
Electric hydraulic system On the other hand, the electric hydraulic power steering system is using the electrically driven hydraulic pump for delivering the steering fluid to the steering gear to run the steering system efficiently.
Electric power steering systems Thus, the electric power steering systems are using a motor in the place of a hydraulic pump for controlling the whole operations of the power steering system. It contains an electronic control unit for handling the steering dynamics.
Causes of power steering system failure In general, the power steering system can be failed due to numerous reasons. But, the most common among them are given below.
Broken steering pump As the power steering pump is a mechanical component, so it can be failed or broken with age and use. Due to these reasons, the steering pump loses its pressure and stiffens the steering. Over time, its internal parts failed, worn out the seals, and cause unusual friction. When the steering pump broke entirely, it will ultimately fail the power steering system and need immediate replacement of the pump.
Lower fluid level To operate properly, the power steering system completely relies on the level of fluid in it. If the fluid level is under the hood, then the steering pump unable to lubricate the steering system component properly. As a result, the temperature of the fluid is increased and worn out the pump too early. Eventually, it will fail the power steering system and need expensive repairs. So, it's always advisable to examine the minimum and maximum level of power steering fluid under the hood.
Fluid leakage A small leak developed in the fluid line will lose the fluid pressure of the power steering system. When it happens, you will notice that the seal is worn out and fail the hoses. Neglecting the issues for longer may fail the power steering system that needs immediate repair. For preventing fluid leakage, you have to replace the fluid lines or hoses of the steering system as well as replace the seals and install a new pump immediately.
Contaminated fluid All we know that the power steering system is a hydraulic system that can use pressure against the liquid to perform the necessary functions. So, make sure that the fluid used in the steering system is clean means free from contaminates and other intrusions like other fluids, and air bubbles. But when the tubes and hoses of the steering system are failing down, then the moisture enters into the fluid and increases friction. As a result, the steering pump is failed and makes your steering stiff while your car is in idle condition.
Cracked belt
The steering pump is commonly run by the crankshaft of the engine in which the power steering belt is connected to the steering pump for supplying the necessary power to run the steering system efficiently. If the belt is cracked, snap, or worn out for any reason, then the power steering system is failed ultimately and makes the steering system stiff as well as difficult to operate.
Conclusion Thus, the power steering system in a Mini Cooper plays a vital role in the smooth functioning of the steering wheel. But, when it fails it will cause several damages to your car. So, if you are living in Tolleson, then without any delay consult with a reputed mechanic for diagnosing the power steering system and fix it by performing the essential replacements.