How to Tell If Your Power Steering Is Going Out

If your steering suddenly feels heavy, jerky, or noisy—especially during low-speed turns—you may be losing power steering. Other telltale signs include a whining or groaning sound while turning, a steering warning light on the dash, visible fluid leaks, burning smells, or intermittent assist that comes and goes. If steering effort spikes abruptly, pull over safely and arrange a tow.

What Failing Power Steering Feels and Sounds Like

Drivers usually notice power steering trouble first through changes in feel, sound, or warning lights. The following common symptoms can help you pinpoint a problem early.

• Heavy or stiff steering, especially at parking-lot speeds or when stopped
• Whining, groaning, or moaning noises that rise with engine speed while turning
• Jerky or inconsistent assist where the wheel “catches,” then frees up
• Steering wheel vibration or shudder when turning at low speed
• A steering or EPS warning light (steering wheel icon) or message such as “Power Steering Assist Fault”
• Fluid leaks under the front of the car (reddish or amber fluid for many systems) or a low power steering reservoir
• Burning oil or belt smell, sometimes with squealing, especially at full lock
• Assist weak when cold, improving as the car warms up (often fluid or pump wear)
• Intermittent assist loss after hard parking maneuvers or extended low-speed turns (possible overheating or electrical issue on EPS)

One symptom alone can indicate trouble, but multiple signs together—like noise plus stiffness and a warning light—strongly suggest the system is failing and needs attention.

What Causes Power Steering Problems

Modern vehicles use either hydraulic power steering (HPS) driven by a belt and fluid, or electric power steering (EPS) that uses an electric motor and control module. Each system has distinct failure points.

Hydraulic Power Steering (HPS): Common Failure Points

Hydraulic systems rely on pressurized fluid from a pump to assist steering. Age, leaks, and fluid condition are key risk factors.

• Low fluid level from leaks at hoses, pump, or rack-and-pinion seals
• Worn or failing power steering pump causing noise and reduced pressure
• Slipping or glazed drive belt/tensioner leading to intermittent assist and squeals
• Air in the system (foamy fluid) causing cavitation and whining
• Clogged reservoir screen, filter, or sticky control valve increasing effort
• Internal rack wear or torn rack seals causing leaks and wandering steering
• Contaminated or incorrect fluid (some vehicles require specific PSF or ATF)

Hydraulic issues often present with both noise and visible leaks, and they can worsen quickly if the system runs low on fluid.

Electric Power Steering (EPS): Common Failure Points

EPS relies on sensors, an electric motor, and stable electrical power. Faults can be intermittent and temperature-dependent.

• Low battery voltage or weak alternator causing reduced or intermittent assist
• Faulty torque sensor or steering angle sensor confusing the control module
• EPS motor or control module failure, sometimes after overheating
• Blown fuse, bad relay, corroded grounds, or damaged wiring/connectors
• Software faults or calibration loss (often addressed by updates or resets)
• After alignment or suspension work, uncalibrated steering angle sensor

With EPS, a dash warning light plus intermittent assist is common; electrical testing and scanning for codes usually pinpoint the fault.

How to Diagnose at Home (Step-by-Step)

Basic checks can quickly separate hydraulic from electrical issues and indicate whether it’s safe to keep driving. Use caution—if steering effort becomes unpredictable, stop and seek a tow.

1. Check the dash: Note any steering/EPS warning lights or messages.
2. Look for leaks: Inspect the ground and engine bay for wet hoses, the pump, or rack boots.
3. Check fluid (HPS): With the engine off and cool, verify reservoir level and color; top up only with the specified fluid.
4. Inspect the belt: Look for cracks, glazing, or slack; listen for squeals on startup or full lock.
5. Listen test: At idle, turn the wheel slowly. Continuous whining or groaning suggests low fluid or pump wear.
6. Feel test: Note stiffness at low speed vs. highway. Heavy only at parking speeds often points to assist problems.
7. Electrical check (EPS): Measure battery voltage (≈12.6V off, 13.7–14.7V running). Low voltage can trigger EPS faults.
8. Scan for codes: Use an OBD-II scanner that can read ABS/EPS modules, not just engine codes.
9. Wheel-off-ground test: Safely lift the front; if it turns easily by hand, mechanical binding is less likely.
10. Temperature effect: If assist improves after warming up, suspect low/old fluid or pump wear (HPS) or marginal battery (EPS).
11. Check TSBs/recalls: Search your VIN and model for steering-related bulletins or campaigns.
12. Document: Record sounds, conditions, and any messages to help a technician diagnose faster.

These steps won’t replace a professional inspection, but they can confirm whether the issue is hydraulic vs. electric and prevent further damage by catching low fluid or weak charging early.

When It’s Unsafe to Drive

Certain conditions mean you should stop driving and arrange for towing to avoid loss of control or further damage.

• Sudden, severe increase in steering effort or steering that binds or locks
• Large, active fluid leak or puddle forming under the car
• Burning smell, smoke, or a screeching belt that doesn’t subside
• EPS warning plus heavy steering, especially combined with battery/charging warnings
• After a curb strike or crash if steering feels off-center or notchy

If you must move the car, do so slowly and briefly; manual steering effort at low speeds can be extreme and unsafe.

Fixes and What a Shop Will Do

Repairs depend on system type and failure mode. Address root causes first to prevent repeat failures.

• Hydraulic systems: Repair leaks (hoses, seals, rack), replace a failing pump, service or replace a worn belt/tensioner, flush/bleed fluid and remove air.
• Electric systems: Test battery/alternator, update EPS software, recalibrate steering angle, replace a faulty torque sensor, motor, module, or repair wiring/grounds.
• Alignment and calibration: After steering or suspension work, perform wheel alignment and sensor calibrations.
• Typical cost ranges (vary by vehicle): Belt/tensioner $100–$350; hose/line $150–$450; pump $300–$800; rack-and-pinion $900–$2,000; EPS motor/module $600–$2,000; battery/alternator $150–$600.
• Fluid correctness: Use only the manufacturer-specified fluid (some require specific PSF or ATF; mixing can damage seals and pumps).

A thorough shop will pressure-test hydraulic systems, load-test the battery/alternator for EPS, scan all modules for codes, and verify repairs with a road test and alignment as needed.

Preventive Maintenance

Regular checks reduce the chance of sudden steering loss and extend component life.

• Inspect power steering fluid monthly (HPS) and follow service intervals for flushing if specified.
• Avoid holding the wheel at full lock for more than a few seconds—it overheats pumps and EPS motors.
• Keep accessory belts and tensioners in good condition.
• Maintain correct tire pressure to reduce steering load.
• Schedule alignments after suspension work or curb strikes.
• Keep the battery and charging system healthy; clean grounds to support EPS.
• Address noises or minor leaks early before they escalate.

These small habits help prevent both hydraulic wear and EPS electrical stress, keeping steering smooth and predictable.

FAQs

Common questions about failing power steering focus on safety, symptoms, and quick checks you can do yourself.

• Is it safe to drive with failing power steering? You can steer, but effort increases dramatically at low speeds. If effort spikes or the system is noisy/leaking, don’t continue—tow it.
• Can power steering fail suddenly? Yes—broken belts, major leaks, or electrical faults can cause abrupt loss of assist.
• Low fluid or bad pump—how can I tell? Low fluid often causes intermittent whine and improves after topping up; a failing pump whines continuously and may not quiet with proper level.
• Will restarting fix EPS issues? A reset can temporarily restore assist, but it signals an underlying electrical, sensor, or voltage problem.
• What color is power steering fluid? Often amber to light red; dark, burnt-smelling, or foamy fluid points to trouble or contamination.
• Will an alignment fix heavy steering? Only if the heaviness is due to binding or geometry issues; it won’t fix pump, fluid, or EPS electrical problems.

If you’re uncertain, a quick scan for EPS codes and a fluid/belt check will usually narrow the cause fast.

Summary

Signs your power steering is going out include heavy or jerky steering, whining or groaning while turning, warning lights, leaks, and burning smells. Hydraulic systems typically suffer from leaks, low/contaminated fluid, pump wear, or belt issues; electric systems commonly struggle with low voltage, sensor faults, or motor/module failures. Verify with simple checks—fluid level, belt condition, electrical health, and a scan for codes—and don’t drive if steering effort spikes or a major leak appears. Prompt diagnosis and the correct fix will restore safe, smooth steering and prevent costly damage.

How can I test my power steering?

Pressure you see it here on the gauge. It’s going to jump up it’s going to skyrocket. 1,400. You can develop about 1,600. PSI. You can also dead head the pump by closing.

What is the average cost to fix power steering?

Fixing power steering can cost anywhere from $10 for a fluid top-off to well over $1,000 for a full system replacement. Most repairs are for common issues like a faulty power steering pump, which can cost $500 to $900 to replace, or a leaking hose, which is less expensive at $60 to $150. The final cost depends on the specific part needed, the make and model of your vehicle, and the labor rates at your shop. 
Cost Breakdown by Component

• Power Steering Fluid: Opens in new tabFor a simple top-off, it’s a cheap fix, costing around $10 to $20. 
• Hose Replacement: Opens in new tabA leaky hose can be fixed for $60 to $150, with labor costs making up a significant portion of that price, according to Jiffy Lube. 
• Power Steering Pump: Opens in new tabExpect to pay $500 to $900 on average for a pump replacement, though this varies significantly by vehicle, says Synchrony. 
• Power Steering Rack and Pinion: Opens in new tabA complete rack and pinion replacement is a more expensive job, with costs potentially reaching $1,000 or more, according to Reddit users. 

Factors Influencing the Cost

• Parts vs. Labor: The price of parts and the labor rate for the mechanic are the biggest cost factors. 
• Vehicle Make and Model: Luxury or high-end vehicles may have more expensive parts, driving up the total cost, notes Kelley Blue Book. 
• Type of Part: Opting for a new, rebuilt, or used part affects the initial cost; a new pump is typically more expensive than a rebuilt or used one. 
• Dealerships vs. Independent Shops: Dealerships often charge 20% to 50% more than independent shops for the same repair, according to CarTalk. 

What to Do

1. 1. Check Your Fluid: The easiest and cheapest fix is often simply adding more power steering fluid, says Earnhardt Lexus. 
2. 2. Get a Professional Diagnosis: Have a mechanic inspect your system to pinpoint the exact problem, whether it’s a simple leak or a more serious component failure. 
3. 3. Request a Detailed Estimate: Ask for an itemized quote that includes parts and labor to understand the specific costs involved. 

What does it feel like for power steering to go out?

When power steering fails, the most noticeable symptom is that the steering wheel becomes hard to turn, requiring significantly more effort to maneuver the vehicle. You might also hear a whining, squealing, or groaning noise when you turn the wheel, feel vibrations through the steering wheel, or notice a pink/red fluid leak under your car. These symptoms are often caused by low power steering fluid, a failing pump, or a damaged belt.
 
Here’s a breakdown of the common sensations and sounds:
Physical Sensations

• Stiff or heavy steering wheel: This is the most direct indication of a problem, as the system no longer assists your effort. 
• Difficulty turning at low speeds: Steering is most noticeable when parking or driving slowly, as the power steering is designed to make these maneuvers easier. 
• Vibrations: You might feel rough, vibrating, or “jumpy” sensations through the steering wheel. 
• Jerky steering: The steering might feel unresponsive or exhibit sudden, unexpected movements. 

Auditory Cues 

• Whining or squealing: A common sound, especially when turning the wheel, can signal a worn-out pump or a belt issue.
• Groaning or grinding: Similar to squealing, these deeper noises often come from the pump struggling to work.

Other Warnings

• Fluid leaks: A pink or red fluid puddle underneath your car often indicates a leak in the power steering system. 
• Burning smell: A burning odor can signify an overheating power steering pump. 

What to do:
If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s important to have your vehicle inspected by a mechanic as soon as possible. Driving with failing power steering can be dangerous, so addressing the issue promptly will ensure your safety and prevent further damage to your vehicle’s steering system.

What are the symptoms of bad power steering?

5 Symptoms that May Point to Your Power Steering Failing

• Your Steering Wheel Feels Stiff.
• Your Car’s Steering Doesn’t Handle the Way it Used To.
• Your Power Steering Fluid is Low or Discolored.
• You Hear a Squealing or Whining Sound.
• You Hear a Groaning Sound.