Total steering failure is rare but possible. If this type of steering failure occurs, it is likely to happen suddenly. You must know what action to take to bring the vehicle safely to a stop. When steering fails completely, the driver will have absolutely no directional control over the vehicle. Fortunately, the balance of the car should keep it traveling on a straight path. Show
Partial steering failure is far more common and thankfully, easier to handle. This type of steering problem may manifest as extremely “heavy” steering, where the vehicle becomes difficult to maneuver. You could also experience unbalanced steering, which pulls the car to one side. No matter what the nature of your steering failure, you must stop as soon as safely possible. If some steering control remains, drivers should attempt to pull over when the vehicle has slowed. Power steering failurePower steering failure often accompanies other mechanical problems. If your engine dies, your power steering will fail. It can also be caused by failure of individual system components, such as fluid leaks or a pump malfunction. When your power steering fails you will still be able to steer the vehicle, though it will require much more strength and effort. If power steering failure is accompanied by power-brake failure, you will have to push down hard on the brake pedal to slow the vehicle. Do not panic if your power steering cuts out, simply ease off the accelerator and gently steer the vehicle to the side of the road. How to handle steering failureAs with all driving emergencies, your first response should be to take a breath and focus on not losing your cool. Allowing yourself to panic will only worsen the situation. When you notice your steering is heavy or unresponsive, your aim should be to slow down gradually. Do not slam on the brakes. Activate your hazard lights to warn other drivers that you are experiencing difficulties, then follow the steps below:
Symptoms of steering failureUnlike other mechanical failures, problems with your steering will usually become apparent before a serious failure occurs. When you notice something odd about your steering, get your car checked out straight away. Too much free movement in the steering wheel could indicate a problem, particularly if this surplus movement has developed over time. Be sure to get your car serviced regularly and if you have power steering, check the fluid levels every so often. Here are some other warning signs to watch out for:
Causes of steering failureTotal steering failure whereby the steering becomes completely unresponsive can only be caused by a break or disconnection between the steering wheel and the car’s wheels. This is more likely to happen in an older vehicle that is susceptible to extreme mechanical malfunctions. When problems arise with hydraulic power steering systems, a fluid leak or pump malfunction is usually to blame. A slow leak in your power steering hydraulics will present as a gradual stiffening of the steering and a progressive whining noise in the steering column. In a serious leak, steering loss will occur with less warning. Electronic power steering (EPS) systems do not use fluid. Malfunctions in this type of system are less common, but still possible. Driving on bumpy roads or hitting damaged road at high-speed can easily damage an EPS system. If you suspect a problem with your car’s steering is developing, avoid driving until you can get it checked out by a mechanic. Steering wheel lockDoes your vehicle have a steering lock device? If so, you must never turn the ignition to the “lock” setting while the vehicle is still moving. This will lock the steering and you will be unable to maneuver. Crashes as a result of accidental steering lock activation are more common than you may think. Jammed steering lockIf your steering lock jams due to a mechanical malfunction, your wheel will lock-up and steering control will be lost entirely. Sometimes, a jammed steering lock can be rectified by gently shifting the wheel from side to side until it releases. Generally, steering lock jams are caused by excessive load on the steering. You may be able to fix this by:
If this does not work or you are not equipped to try these fixes yourself, it is time to call in a certified mechanic! What should be your first response to steering failure quizlet?What should you do in case of total steering failure? keep a firm grip on the steering wheel with both hands and release the accelerator pedal slowly.
What should you do if your power steering fails?If your steering fails, you will need to stop as soon as it is safe to do so. If you are in an area without much traffic and conditions are dry, brake as quickly as possible. If it is wet or icy, try to pump your brakes and downshift to avoid skidding, since you won't be able to steer to correct a skid.
What is the first thing a driver should do after making a turn?A driver should be sure to stay in the same lane as he/she turns & continue to search for other road users. After a driver completes the turn, remember to turn off the signal and allow the steering wheel to go back to center.
What is the first thing you should do if your brakes fail quizlet?What are the proper steps to follow if the brakes fail? When your brakes fail, you need to pump the brake three or four times, downshift into lower gears, apply the parking brake, and search for an open zone.
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