Steering wheel hard to turn

[db88]

Hi all,

as the title says my steering wheel is hard to turn has anybody else had this problem???? the steering was a bit hard when i got the car but last night it went on to a another level almost undrivable

[ian]

Have you checked the power steering fluid? or the belt .check that its not slipping .

[db88]

Have you checked the power steering fluid? or the belt .check that its not slipping .

the fluid I have the belt I haven't I will check it out tomorrow

Thanks

[sports racer]

Is it hard to turn when driving or just when parking?

[Guest001]

Maybe pump the tyres up a bit

[db88]

Is it hard to turn when driving or just when parking?

when driving its hard as well but not as hard when parking

[db88]

the tyres are fine

[sports racer]

when driving its hard as well but not as hard when parking

I wonder if it might be something else? Jack up the car so both front wheels are off the ground and make sure the handbrake is on. The usual safety rules apply - make sure it can't fall off the jacks/bricks/girlfriend (whatever you used to hold up the car). With the key in the ignition but the engine turned off turn the steering wheel. It should be easy to turn. If not you need to stick your head underneath and see if there's anything stopping the steering from working properly.

Everything looks ok? Turn the engine on and DON'T put it in gear or rev the engine. Turn the steering wheel. Does it feel different with the engine running? If it's easier to turn then the power steering is working but not as good as it should. If there's no difference or it's harder then the power steering isn't working at all.

Turn the engine off and remove your jacks/bricks/girlfriend so the front wheels are back on the ground. At this point if your girlfriend was used it might be a good idea to go buy her some chocolate and flowers. Don't ask me how I know this.

With the engine running turn the steering wheel as far as it will go to the left and see if there are any leaks. Turn it all the way to the right. Any leaks? What about any noises while you've got the steering turned all the way? Does it sound like the pump is working very hard or no sound at all?

Let us know how you go.

Cheers

Paul