Navigating Smoothly: Maintaining Your Vehicle’s Steering System

Wichita State is hosting 2024 AAC Cross Country Championships. And as we welcome the athletes, we are reminded how, as we race along our roads, how important our steering systems are. Because few components play as crucial a role in navigating our path as the ability to steer our way. But, we often take our vehicle’s steering for granted. So, in this blog, the experts at Tracy’s Tire Pros delve into our steering system, it’s importance, and the essential maintenance practices to keep it in prime condition.

Understanding Your Steering System

Before driving into maintenance tips, let’s grasp the basics of how our car or truck’s steering systems work. Most modern vehicles employ either a hydraulic power steering system or an electric power steering system: hydraulic systems utilize fluid pressure to assist steering. Whereas, electric systems rely on an electric motor. Regardless of the type, the basic components include:

1. Steering Wheel: The driver’s way of controlling the direction of the vehicle.
2. Tie Rods and Ball Joints: Connect the steering gear to the wheels, allowing for movement.
3. Steering Gear: Converts rotational motion into lateral motion.
4. Power Steering Pump or Motor: Provides assistance to the driver, reducing the effort required to turn the wheel.
5. Steering Column: Transfers motion from the steering wheel to the steering box or rack.

Maintenance Tips for a Healthy Steering System

• Regular Inspections: Schedule periodic inspections of your steering system with routine maintenance appointments at Tracy’s Tire Pros. Because, they can identify potential issues such as leaks, worn components, or fluid levels that may affect steering performance.
• Fluid Checks: If your vehicle utilizes a hydraulic power steering system, regularly check the fluid levels. Because, low fluid levels can lead to decreased steering assist and potential damage to the system.
• Alignment Checks: Proper wheel alignment is crucial for balanced steering and even tire wear. So, schedule wheel alignment checks whenever you notice uneven tire wear, pulling to one side, or steering wheel misalignment.
• Tie Rod Inspection: Have Tracy’s Tire Pros examine tie rods and ball joints for signs of wear or damage. Because, loose or worn tie rods can result in sloppy steering, uneven tire wear, and compromised vehicle control. And replace worn components promptly to maintain steering precision.
• Power Steering Fluid Flush: Over time, power steering fluid can degrade, accumulating contaminants that may impair system performance. So, flush the power steering system according to your vehicle’s maintenance schedule.
• Drive Carefully: Avoid harsh impacts such as potholes, curbs, or debris, as these can damage steering components.
• Listen for Signs: Pay attention to any unusual noises or sensations while steering. Because squealing, groaning, or difficulty turning the wheel may be a sign of issues that require attention from Tracy’s Tire Pros.
• Maintain Suspension Components: The steering system works in conjunction with the suspension system to provide a smooth and controlled ride. So, regularly inspect and maintain suspension components such as shocks, struts, and control arms.

Proper Maintenance of Your Vehicle’s Steering System Keep Those You Love Heading in the Right Direction

Your vehicle’s steering system is not only essential for maneuvering through traffic but also plays an important role in overall safety and driving experience. And by following these maintenance tips and staying proactive about caring for your steering system, you can help ensure peace of mind on the road. So, remember, a little preventative maintenance goes a long way toward keeping your vehicle in top-notch condition for miles to come. And the ASE certified mechanics at Tracy’s Tire Pros is here to help you in your preventative efforts.

Now Tracy’s has three locations. And, we serve customers all over Wichita and Goddard: West Maple Street auto care and auto repair, East First Street N. and West 21st Street N.. And We are thrilled to be a part of your family’s trusted brands for all auto repair and tire needs.

Tracy’s Automotive is a proud dealer for Jasper Engines and Vogue Performance Exhaust systems.

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