Car trouble · Steering & suspension

My steering is hard to turn

The steering wheel suddenly feels heavy, especially at low speed or when parking. Power steering assist has dropped out.

Stop driving it

Steering that suddenly gets heavy can make the car hard to control in a turn or an emergency. Don’t drive it until it has been checked, and have it towed if it stays heavy.

A starting point, not a diagnosis. Most parts stores read check-engine codes and test batteries for free.

Likely causes — tick the parts you want

  1. Low power steering fluid

    most likely · Most people can do this

    How to check: Find the power steering reservoir under the hood (the owner’s manual shows it) and check the level. Many newer cars have electric steering with no fluid at all.

  2. A broken or slipping serpentine belt

    possible · Doable with tools and a free afternoon

    How to check: With the engine off, look at the belt on the front of the engine. A missing, broken or shiny slipping belt stops the power steering pump.

  3. A failing power steering pump or electric steering fault

    possible · A mechanic’s job

    How to check: A loud whine when turning, or a steering warning light on the dash, points to the pump or the electric steering system.

Your car — the counter needs this

If the counter doesn’t have a part, your shopper asks them to order it under your name and messages you the order number. When it comes in, send someone to collect it.

Not quite it?

My car pulls to one sideMy car clunks over bumps
My steering is hard to turn — likely causes and the parts · DriverRuns