What is Power Steering in Cars and How Does It Work?

What is Power Steering?

Power steering is a mechanical device installed on a vehicle that reduces the effort needed to turn the steering wheel. With the help of a hydraulic system, power steering reduces the effort of the manual strength necessary to apply to the steering wheel. There are various types of power steering systems depending on the make and model of the vehicle. Traditional manual steering wheels are bigger compared to modern power steering wheels.

 

Types of Power Steering Systems

The most important feature of modern cars is a power steering system. There are three main types of power steering systems such as hydraulic power steering (HPS), electric power steering (EPS) and hydroelectric power steering (EPHS). The most commonly used power steering systems are HPS and EPS.

 

1. Hydraulic Power Steering

Hydraulic power steering was the first type of power steering introduced in cars. The hydraulic power steering system uses a fluid to force pressure, when the steering wheel is turned. The fluid pressure was generated by a pump connected to the engine. The hydraulic power steering was not considered fuel efficient.

 

The Hydraulic steering system was commonly used in cars manufactured before 2000, but only a few car manufacturers still use it.

 

2. Electric Power Steering

Most car models in the market come with an electric power steering system. Electric power steering systems offer better efficiency and use electric energy to facilitate the working of the steering assembly. This system is commonly called EPS, which is a modern power steering system that is popular, flexible, and fuel efficient.

 

The Electric Power steering system can be tuned to various driving styles and vehicle models. The lane keeping assist and self–parking technology are the advanced features in the modern cars with EPS system.

 

3. Electro-hydraulic Power steering

Electro- hydraulic power steering system combines both the elements of hydraulic and electric power steering system. It is also called as Hybrid power steering system. This kind of a power steering system are mostly used in sports cars and high-performance oriented vehicles that requires responsive steering. This power steering system serves high fuel efficiency when compared to hydraulic steering system.


Also Read: Hydraulic vs Electric Power Steering: A Detailed Comparison

Components of Power Steering System

In the olden days, cars had huge steering wheels and needed a lot of arm power to manage them. But now, there are many components in cars with a power steering system that makes it easy to turn the steering wheel. Modern technology has made vehicles turn much easier and faster.

 

The major components of power steering system between steering wheel and steering gear includes,

1. Steering wheel

2. Steering column

3. Steering coupler

4. Power steering hoses

5. Power steering pump

 

Initially, the power steering system was hydraulic, but electric power steering systems are becoming more common and include additional components such as sensors, wires, actuators, motors and an electronic control unit. These components also involve joints, connections and other mechanisms that can control the vehicle’s direction accurately.

 

It is crucial to regularly inspect and maintain these system components, it is also equally important to send the vehicle for servicing when necessary.

 

Advantages of Power steering system

The Power steering system assists in turning the steering wheel easier and it is less tiring for the drivers. It helps the steering the vehicle speed based on various road conditions. It helps in reducing the risks of accidents.

 

There are three power steering systems, among them the electric one is considered the most effective. The electric power steering offers enhanced accuracy than a manual or hydraulic steering system. It comes with different driving modes which help the driver to adjust according to his driving comfort and roads. It also helps in engine efficiency as it doesn’t consume much energy from engine and has a life in long run.

 

Disadvantages of Power Steering system

Though power steering system has several advantages, it also comes with many disadvantages. They incur higher costs due to their technicality both in manufacturing and maintenance. This increases the overall price of the vehicle. There is a lot of dependency on power sources.

 

Power steering system is complicated when compared to manual steering system and it has a fluid leakage problem too. The power steering fluid levels has to be checked at least once in a month or as per the vehicle’s owner manual. Regular checks can help to identify the low fluid levels and prevent leaks that can affect the performance of the power steering system.

 

Maintenance Tips of Powers Steering systems

Majority of today’s cars are equipped with power steering system as a mandatory feature. Drivers have better control of their vehicle with lighter steering. There are few tips to maintain good power steering system.

 

1. Having a proper wheel alignment is essential.

2. Using same tyre widths when changing the tyres are important.

3. Ensure to keep the fluid levels are kept in sufficient level when maintaining power steering system

4. Changing the fluid filter regularly. The filter helps to separate the contaminants from the fluid, Keeping the power steering system free of dirt. This could enhance the performance of the vehicle.

5. Monitoring the hoses for signs of wear and high and low pressure helps the hydraulic fluid to flow smoothly. If there is any compromise on the hoses, them the fluid won’t be properly delivered to the power steering system. Thus, is it important to check for the hoses regularly.

 

Conclusion

In conclusion, steering is an important feature in a vehicle. Power steering systems were an optional feature in the mid-1950s for cars in America. But now they have become mandatory for all the vehicles around the world. A Power steering system helps the driver to steer the vehicle with reduced force and ensures better safety, comfort and stability. Thus, it is preferred by all drivers to have an easy and smooth driving experience.

 

While power steering is an essential feature in a vehicle for easy and smooth driving, having the right Car Insurance is mandatory for complying with government norms.

 

Shriram Car Insurance offers coverages such as own damage coverage, third-party liability coverage, personal accident coverage, road assistance and efficient customer support. Thus, having a Car Insurance policy provides peace of mind when you drive on the road.

 

FAQs

1. What is a Power steering system, and what are its types?

A power steering system is a technology that reduces the effort of the driver while steering the vehicle. It ensures a comfortable and easy drive on the road. There are three types of Power steering systems.

 

• Hydraulic power steering (HPS)
• Electric power steering (EPS)
• Electro-hydraulic power steering (EHPS)

 

2. Is it dangerous to drive without power steering?

No, it is not dangerous to drive without a power steering system. Manual steering systems were first introduced system for driving. This system requires a lot of manual effort while steering the wheel of the car. Thus, drivers prefer using a power steering system over a manual steering system.