Back to all

Stay Headed in the Right Direction, Naples

March 19, 2023

Power steering is standard on nearly every vehicle in Naples, Florida, 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 Tuffy Naples in Naples for questions about your power steering.

The pump generates power that assists drivers as they steer their vehicle around Naples, Florida. 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 Tuffy Naples 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 Tuffy Naples 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 Tuffy Naples.

In addition to providing a boost, the fluid cleans, cools and lubricates the power steering system. Over time, the lubricants and detergents diminish so Naples 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 Naples drivers who are not sure, every two years is a good rule of thumb. 

At Tuffy Naples, 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 Tuffy Naples in Naples, to keep you headed in the right direction.

Tuffy Naples
9401 Tamiami Trail N
Naples, Florida 34108
239-596-1668
https://www.tuffynaples.com

More articles from Tuffy Naples

Do you have a Clue (Get the Most Out of a Service Visit)

November 17, 2024

When you head to the doctor, you probably have it in your mind what you're going to say about why you don't feel good. That way your doctor can use that information to diagnose your problem. You might want to think of that same approach when you take your vehicle in for a repair. Experts say wha... More

A Turn for the Worse (Using Turn Signals)

November 10, 2024

Distracted driving is bad, you know that. Daydreaming, talking on the cell phone, putting your makeup on in the rear view mirror. All bad. But there's something else that causes more than twice as many accidents, according to a recent study. And that's people who don't use their turn signals.... More

Road Ready (Trip Inspection)

November 3, 2024

Maybe you've been cooped up for a while and are yearning for a change of scenery. Or maybe you need to visit a relative who lives far away. You choose not to fork out the big bucks for airline tickets, so it's time for a road trip. Make sure you're road ready by having your vehicle professiona... More