2~3min, which appears in the steering pump is normal when the engine is started in cold
weather (20
or even colder)
℃
. But when the noise is abnormal and the turning performance
is affected, the noise can be considered as malfunction. The reasons are shown below:
·
The looseness of the steering transmission mechanism causes the abnormal turning noise.
·
The power steering pump is damaged or overworn or air is mixed into the liquid which
causes the loud noise.
·
The power steering pump driving belt pulley is loose or the belt sliding which causes the
loud noise.
·
The performance of the steering control valve is poor.
·
The oil tube connector is loose or the oil tube is broken.
·
The oil-filter strainer is blocked or there are too much sediments in the hydraulic circuit.
※Diagnosis and Troubleshooting
·
If there is sound of “click” when the vehicle turns, maybe the steering column connector, tie
rod or ball joint loose. These components should be checked. If necessary, tighten them or
replace the damaged one; if the vibration of the steering column shaft is obvious, replace
the steering column assy; if the steering gear is installed too loose, tighten it; lubricate the
connecting sections where are necessary. In addition, if the steering pump driving belt is
loose it will also make a sound of “click”. Therefore, the steering pump belt wheel should
be checked if it is loose. If necessary, screw tightly or replace it to clear up the noise
failure.
·
If there is sound of “quack-quack” when the vehicle turns, especially when the steering
wheel is turned from one limit position to another which may be caused by the sliding of
the power steering pump. Check the tension and the wear status of the driving belt, then
tighten or replace it depending on practical situation.
·
If there is sound of “cluck” from the steering pump when the vehicle turns, the reason
maybe the air bubbles in the oil which cause the pneumatic noise as the oil flows. First,
check the oil level. If it is too low, fill the oil reservoir with oil to the proper position to
check and eliminate the leakage failure. Then, check if the hose is broken, or the clamp is
loose which the air would enter the system. Replace the broken hose or the clamp, if
necessary. After confirming that the air entered the liquid of the power steering system,
discharge the air from the power steering system to eliminate the pneumatic noise. If there
is sound of “hiss” or scream from the steering pump, and there is no air leakage in the
hydraulic system, the tension of the driving belt is normal, it shows there is block in the oil
pipeline or the oil pump is overworn and damaged. Repair or replace it.
·
There is sound of “hiss” when the steering wheel is in limit position or turning slow in spot.
If the noise is extremely abnormal, the performance of the steering control valve may be
incompetent. The control valve should be replaced and compared to eliminate the failure.
N-25