Stay Headed in the Right Direction, Tiffin
August 2, 2020
Power steering is standard on nearly every vehicle in Tiffin, Ohio, these days. Now there are some exotic, new types of power steering systems, but for the most part, the general setup is a pump that's driven by a belt powered by the engine.
Contact the automotive professionals at Courtesy Auto Repair Plus in Tiffin for questions about your power steering.
The pump generates power that assists drivers as they steer their vehicle around Tiffin, Ohio. Power steering systems use hoses to move pressurized fluid back and forth. These hoses can develop leaks so it's a good idea to have Courtesy Auto Repair Plus inspect them at every oil change.
A check of the power steering fluid level is on the list for every full service oil change at Courtesy Auto Repair Plus because low fluid can damage the power steering pump. And the fluid needs to be compatible with the hoses and seals, so it's important to use the correct type – just ask your service advisor at Courtesy Auto Repair Plus.
In addition to providing a boost, the fluid cleans, cools and lubricates the power steering system. Over time, the lubricants and detergents diminish so Tiffin drivers need to replace their old fluid with clean, fresh fluid periodically.
Excess moisture can collect in the power steering fluid as well. That can lead to rust and corrosion as well as reduce the effectiveness of the fluid. Many outline power steering service intervals in the owner's manual. Unfortunately, this service is sometimes left off the maintenance schedule. For Tiffin drivers who are not sure, every two years is a good rule of thumb.
At Courtesy Auto Repair Plus, we use a detergent to clean the system, flush out the old fluid and replace it with new fluid.
Now, if you are experiencing high steering effort, erratic power assist or loud whining coming from the pump, you may have a power steering problem. Another sign is having to frequently top off the fluid.
Holding the steering wheel to the far right or left for more than a few seconds at a time can wear your pump out quickly. We want you to be sure to service your power steering system regularly at your service center, or Courtesy Auto Repair Plus in Tiffin, to keep you headed in the right direction.
Courtesy Auto Repair Plus
967 Bon Air Ave
Tiffin, Ohio 44883
419-443-0797
http://www.courtesyautorepairplus.com
More articles from Courtesy Auto Repair Plus
See the Light (Bulb Replacement)
January 11, 2026
When you notice one of your headlights has gone out, its important for the safe operation of your vehicle to get it changed and working again. Not only is replacing a headlight important for your ability to see in the dark, but its also vital that it be lighting your way and aimed correctly so o... More
Dashboard's a Funny Name (Instrumental Panel Warning Lights)
January 4, 2026
Every day you drive, you're sitting behind the dashboard. But how in the world did it get that name? Back in the days of the horse-drawn carriage, horses would kick up dirt and mud on the driver and passengers, "dashing" debris against the carriage. So those who built carriages began installing a... More
10 Things That Are Lowering Your Fuel Economy
December 28, 2025
Regardless of whatever current gas prices may be, if you could use less gas, wouldnt you? Well, here are 10 things that are robbing you of better fuel economy that you can change for the better: Not enough air in your tires. Underinflated tires have a smaller rolling diameter and more res... More