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Why does the power steering hum when you turn the steering wheel? Causes. Causes of power steering hum The power steering hums when it's cold

Hydraulic power steering makes the driver's work much easier; with hydraulics, the steering wheel turns easily, even if the car is stationary. But when the power steering pump hums, problems begin: the extraneous noise that appears does not bode well, and most likely repairs are required. The reasons for the resulting hum can be different, and the howl itself is not only constant, but sometimes occurs periodically, under certain conditions, in different steering positions. Where does the hum come from, is it possible to eliminate it yourself and do without repairs? We’ll look into this in this article.

Why is the power steering noisy, the main reasons

Power steering was installed on cars back in the Soviet Union; at first, hydraulics were used on MAZ trucks. The first passenger car in Russia equipped with a hydraulic booster was the executive ZIL-111, which was produced since 1958. If earlier cars had a worm-type gearbox, then almost all modern cars are equipped with a rack-and-pinion steering mechanism, and the entire hydraulic system is sealed. In addition to the rack, the steering system has:

metal tubes and rubber hoses through which liquid flows;
High pressure pump;
filler tank.

The power steering pump is driven by the engine using a belt, creates a certain pressure, and for each car model it can be different, but on average - from 80 to 150 Bar (from 8 to 15 MPa). The upper pressure threshold is limited by a pressure reducing valve located in the pump; a special liquid is poured into the system; on some car models, transmission oil for automatic transmissions is used.

A hum in the power steering may occur in the following cases:

fluid leaks out and there is not enough of it in the system;
steering rack is faulty;
the system is airy;
The power steering pump is worn out and needs to be replaced;
the drive belt is loose;
a liquid that does not meet the specifications has been filled.

A humming noise in hydraulic steering is acceptable in extreme steering positions, regardless of the car - VAZ, Audi or BMW. The fact is that when the wheels are turned all the way to the right or left, maximum pressure is created in the hydraulic system, and it is not recommended to keep the steering wheel turned all the way for a long time, as the pump may burn out.

The hydraulic booster is noisy when the car is not warmed up

Car owners often notice this phenomenon - the power steering makes noise when the engine is cold when starting, and the lower the temperature, the more noticeable the howl. The humming can last from 20-30 seconds to 5 minutes, then the extraneous sounds disappear. Why this happens cannot be answered unequivocally; each specific case must be considered individually. The most likely reasons for this phenomenon:

the liquid is not of very high quality and thickens in the cold;
Perhaps there is not enough fluid in the system, you need to check its level;
It is not the power steering pump that is humming, but, for example, the water pump bearing.

Power steering uses different types of fluids that differ in viscosity, so you need to fill in what is recommended by the manufacturer. For example, Dexron VI is recommended for refueling and topping up the power steering of a Chevrolet Cruze; it is also acceptable to use oil for automatic transmissions of the ATF type.

The power steering hums when you turn the steering wheel

The power steering may howl when the steering wheel is turned, but when the car is moving straight, the hum is not heard. The same thing happens if the car is stationary:

when the steering wheel is stationary, the power steering operates quietly;
There is a humming noise when turning the steering wheel.

There are also several reasons for the occurrence of extraneous sounds:

there is little fluid (it leaks), or it needs to be changed;
there is air in the system;
the pump requires repair or replacement;
The steering mechanism is faulty.

When there is very little fluid, or it has completely leaked out, the steering noise disappears, but the steering wheel becomes heavy and clumsy. There are drivers who do not pay attention to a tight steering wheel and continue to drive the car, but this does not end well: the steering rack parts begin to wear out intensively, and soon enough they have to be replaced.

Is repair necessary if the power steering is humming?

If the hydraulic booster is noisy and the cause of the malfunction has not yet been identified, you can try to diagnose it yourself. To do this you should:

place the car on a dry, level place;
start the engine;
carry out an external inspection for fluid leakage;
remove the cap of the power steering filler tank and check the level in it;
pay attention to the color of the liquid, whether it has darkened;
Turn the steering wheel and make sure that no air bubbles appear in the tank (this diagnosis needs to be done by two people).

If the fluid is gone, it should be added, but first you need to find the cause of the leak and fix the problem.

After topping up, it is necessary to bleed the system and remove air from it, otherwise the howling of the hydraulic booster will continue. It’s easy to pump the power steering, but it’s also easier to do this kind of work with two people. We proceed as follows:

one of the participants starts the internal combustion engine, turns the steering wheel all the way to the right and left several times;
another looks to see if there is air in the power steering reservoir and if the fluid is leaving, and if necessary, tops up;
after rotating the steering wheel 5 or 6 times, you need to make sure that the hum has stopped and the system is no longer leaking air;
If the defect is not eliminated, you should try this procedure several more times.

Unfortunately, it is not always possible to restore normal operation of the steering, and if the hum continues, the power steering pump is probably to blame. Usually this part is changed, and even repaired in car services (repair kits are available), but repair is not always justified - what the result will be is unknown. For many car models, the pump is inexpensive, especially if it is not original. For example, a Ford Focus-1 power steering pump can cost approximately 60-80 dollars; it is possible that restoring the unit will cost no less.

Any vehicle periodically requires repair and maintenance, and the steering also needs to be maintained in good technical condition. In order for the hydraulic booster to work longer, the fluid in the mechanism must be changed in a timely manner; usually the replacement is done once every two years. Similar work is also performed if:

the liquid has darkened, dirt, various impurities are found in it, or there is a burning smell;
the car was purchased recently, and it is not known what is in the power steering reservoir;
The power steering hummed, there is an assumption that after the fluid is replaced, the hum will disappear.

It is not difficult to change the fluid in the steering hydraulic system; we carry out the work in the following order (using the example of the Hyundai Getz):

There is no need to start the engine while bleeding air, but add enough new fluid so that it is at a level between the MIN and MAX marks. Typically, for refueling including flushing on a Hyundai Getz car, no more than 1 liter of liquid is required; at the end of the operation, we lower the front wheels into place, and after starting the engine, we top up the system, if necessary.

What to do, if power steering hums? This question is periodically asked by most car owners whose cars have this system installed. What could be the causes and consequences of the breakdown? And is it worth paying attention to this at all?

Reasons why is the power steering humming?, maybe several. Extraneous sounds indicate an obvious malfunction in the control system. And the sooner you fix it, the more money you will save and will not put yourself at risk of getting into an emergency with a faulty steering system of your car.

Power steering device

Causes of hum

An unpleasant power steering hum can occur under various circumstances. Let's look at the most basic reasons why the power steering hums when turning:

Low fluid level in the hydraulic booster system. You can check this visually by opening the hood and looking at the oil level in the power steering expansion tank. It should be between the MIN and MAX marks. If the level is below the minimum mark, then it is worth adding fluid. However, before doing this, you must definitely find the cause of the leak. Especially if a little time has passed since the last top-up. As a rule, leaks occur at clamps and at joints. Especially if the hoses are already old. Before topping up, be sure to eliminate the cause of the leak..
The filled liquid does not match the one recommended by the manufacturer. This can cause not only a hum, but also more serious malfunctions. Also power steering buzz in winter This may be due to the fact that although the liquid meets the specification, it is not intended for use in special temperature conditions (at significant frosts).
Dirty power steering fluid
Poor quality or contamination liquids in the system. If you purchased “scorched” oil, then there is a high probability that after some time it will lose its properties and the power steering will begin to hum. As a rule, along with the hum, you will feel that it has become harder to turn the steering wheel. In this case, be sure to check the quality of the oil. As in the previous case, open the hood and look at the condition of the fluid. If it has become significantly blackened, and even more so, crumpled, it is necessary to replace it. Ideally, the color and consistency of the oil should not differ much from new. You can check the condition of the liquid “by eye”. To do this, you need to take a little liquid from the tank with a syringe and drop it onto a clean sheet of paper. Red, raspberry burgundy, green or blue colors are allowed (depending on the original used). The liquid should not be dark - brown, gray, black. Also check the smell coming from the tank. It shouldn't smell like burnt rubber or burnt oil. Remember that the fluid must be replaced in accordance with the schedule approved in your car’s manual (as a rule, it is changed every 70-100 thousand kilometers or once every two years). If necessary, change the oil. You will find a list of the best fluids for the power steering system in the corresponding one.
Air entering the system. This is a very dangerous phenomenon that is harmful to the power steering pump. Check for foam in the hydraulic system expansion tank. If this occurs, then it is necessary to replace the fluid.
Steering rack faults. It can also cause a hum. It is worth carrying out a visual inspection and diagnosis. The main signs of a rack malfunction are a knocking sound in its body or from one of the front wheels. The reason for this may be failure of the gaskets and/or damage to the steering rod boots, which can result in leakage of working fluid, dust and dirt getting onto the rack, and knocking noise. In any case, it is necessary to carry it out using repair kits sold in car dealerships. Or ask a service station for help.
Do not drive with a faulty steering rack, as this may cause it to jam and cause an accident.
Loose power steering drive belt. Diagnosing this is quite simple. The procedure must be performed after the engine has been running for some time (the longer, the easier it is to diagnose). The fact is that if the belt slips along the pulley, it becomes hot. You can verify this by touching it with your hand. To tension, you need to know the force with which the belt should be tensioned. If you don’t have a manual and don’t know the effort, go to the service center for help. If the belt wears excessively, it must be replaced.
Power steering pump malfunction. This is the most unpleasant and expensive breakdown. Its main symptom is an increase in the effort with which you need to turn the steering wheel. The reasons why the power steering pump is humming can be various failed parts of the pump - bearings, impeller, seals. You can familiarize yourself with methods for diagnosing and repairing power steering in another.

Power steering hums when cold

Troubleshooting power steering and steering rack

There are several reasons why the power steering hums when cold. The first is that it goes air leakage through low pressure lines. To eliminate it, it is enough to put two clamps on the tube going from the reservoir to the power steering pump. In addition, it is worth replacing the ring located on the suction pipe of the pump itself. After installing the clamps, we recommend that you use an oil-resistant sealant to coat the clamps and joints.

You can also conditionally identify another reason, the probability of which is low. Sometimes there are cases when it is carried out insufficient (poor quality) pumping of the power steering system. In this case, an air bubble remains at the bottom of the tank, which is removed with a syringe. Naturally. that its presence can cause the indicated hum.

Elimination methods may include replacing oil hoses and/or racks, replacing the power steering pump, installing additional clamps on all hoses in order to prevent air leaks into the system. You can also perform the following procedures:

replacing the O-ring on the expansion tank supply spout;
installing a new hose from the reservoir to the pump using oil-resistant sealant;
perform the procedure for expelling air from the system (when performing the procedure, bubbles will appear on the surface of the liquid, which must be given time to burst) by turning the steering wheel with the engine not running;

Another repair option is to replace the O-ring in the power steering pressure suction hose (and, if necessary, the hose itself and both clamps). The fact is that over time it loses elasticity and becomes rigid, that is, it loses elasticity and tightness, and begins to let air through, which enters the system, causing knocking and foam in the tank. The way out is to replace this ring. Sometimes a problem can arise because it can be difficult to find a similar ring in a store. But if you find it, be sure to replace it and place it on the mount and lubricate it with oil-resistant sealant.

For some cars, a special power steering repair kit is available for sale. If problems arise with this unit, the first thing you need to do is buy a repair kit and change the rubber gaskets that are included in it. Moreover, it is advisable to buy original kits (especially important for expensive foreign cars).

Power steering pump bearing

It is also necessary to monitor absence of dirt in the system fluid. If it is present even in small quantities, over time this will lead to wear on the parts of the power steering pump, which will cause it to begin to make unpleasant sounds and work worse, which will be expressed in increased effort when turning the steering wheel, as well as possible knocking. Therefore, when replacing the fluid, be sure to check for dirt deposits at the bottom of the expansion tank. If they exist, you need to get rid of them. Check the filter in the tank (if there is one). It should be relatively clean and intact, tightly adjacent to the walls of the tank. In some cases, it is better to replace the entire tank and filter rather than try to clean them. Also in this case, it is necessary to remove the rail, disassemble it, wash it from dirt, and also replace the rubber-plastic parts. To do this you need to use the mentioned repair kit.

It can make an unpleasant sound power steering pump outer bearing. Its replacement is easy, without the need to completely disassemble the unit. However, sometimes it can be difficult to find a replacement for him.

There are special additives that are added to power steering fluid. They eliminate the hum of the pump, relieve effort on the steering wheel, increase the clarity of the power steering, reduce the level of vibration of the hydraulic pump, and protect system parts from wear when the oil level is low. However, motorists have different attitudes towards such additives. They really help some, but they only harm others and speed up the time for replacing the power steering pump or replacing it.

When choosing a liquid, pay attention to its temperature characteristics so that it works normally in severe frosts (if necessary). Because the high viscosity oil will create obstacles to the normal operation of the power steering system.

Power steering hums when hot

If the power steering hums when hot, then there may be several problems. Let's look at several typical situations and methods for solving them.

If it starts while the engine is warming up, it is necessary to replace the pump or repair it using a repair kit.
When a knocking sound appears on a warm engine at low speeds, but disappears at high speeds, this means that the power steering pump has become unusable. In this case, there may be two ways out - replacing the pump and pouring thicker fluid into the power steering system.
If you have poured counterfeit fluid into the system, this may cause it to heat up. will lose its viscosity, accordingly, the pump will not be able to create the necessary pressure in the system. The solution is to replace the oil with the original one, after flushing the system (pumping with fresh fluid).
Steering rack malfunction. When heated, the fluid becomes less viscous and can leak through the seals if they are damaged.

Remember that it is better to use the original liquid. This is evidenced by the experience of many car owners. After all, buying counterfeit oil can cause costly repairs to elements of the power steering system.

Power steering buzzes in extreme positions

Do not turn the front wheels for long periods of time

It should be taken into account that when the wheels are turned all the way, the power steering pump operates at maximum load. Therefore, it may make additional sounds that are not a sign of a malfunction. Some automakers report this in their manuals. It is important to distinguish precisely the emergency noises associated with problems in the system.

However, if you are sure that the sounds that appear are the result of a malfunction in the system, then it is necessary to carry out diagnostics. The main reasons that the power steering hums in extreme positions are the same reasons listed above. That is, it is necessary to check the operation of the pump, the fluid level in the expansion tank, the tension of the power steering drive belt, and the cleanliness of the fluid. The situation described below may also occur.

Typically, at the top of the gearbox there is a valve box, which is designed to control hydraulic flows. When the wheel is turned to its extreme position, the flow is blocked by the bypass valve, and the liquid passes through a “small circle,” that is, the pump works on itself and does not cool. This is very harmful for it and is fraught with serious damage - for example, scoring on the cylinder or pump gates. In winter, when the oil is more viscous, this is especially true. That's why do not keep the wheels turned all the way for more than 5 seconds.

Power steering hums after replacement

Sometimes the power steering starts to hum after an oil change. Unpleasant sounds may be caused by the pump if the system less thick oil was poured in than it was before. The fact is that between the inner surface of the stator ring and the rotor plates the output increases. Vibration of the plates also occurs due to the unevenness of the stator surface.

It is also possible that a hum may occur after replacing the high-pressure power steering hose. One of the reasons may be a poor-quality hose. Some service stations make the mistake of installing ordinary hydraulic hoses instead of special hoses designed for high pressure and operation in the power steering system. This may cause airing the system and, accordingly, the occurrence of hum. The remaining reasons are completely similar to the cases listed above (knock on cold, hot).

In order for the hydraulic booster to work normally and not knock, you must follow a few simple rules:

Monitor the oil level in the power steering system, top up and change it on time. In addition, check its condition. There is always a risk of purchasing a low-quality liquid, which becomes unusable after a short period of use (check its color and smell).
Don't delay for long(more than 5 seconds) wheels in extreme position(both left and right). This is harmful for the power steering pump, which operates without cooling.
When parking the car Always keep the front wheels level (straight). This will take the load off the power steering system the next time you start the engine. This advice is especially relevant in cold weather, when the oil thickens.
If it occurs (humming, knocking, increased effort when turning the steering wheel) don't delay repairs. You will not only fix the breakdown at a lower cost, but also protect your car, you and your loved ones from possible emergency situations.
Constantly monitor the condition of the steering rack. This is especially true for the condition of anthers and seals. This way you will not only extend its service life, but also save money on expensive repairs.

Conclusion

Remember that if the slightest sign of malfunction of the vehicle’s steering, and in particular the power steering system, appears, it is necessary to carry out diagnostics and repair work as quickly as possible. Otherwise, when the critical moment comes you risk losing control of the car when the steering fails (for example, the steering rack jams). Do not skimp on the condition of your car and the safety of yourself and your loved ones.

If the power steering hums when you turn the steering wheel in place, then you should look into this issue and eliminate the malfunctions that have arisen. This problem occurs from time to time for many owners of cars that have this device. Let's consider the causes and possible consequences of such breakdowns, and whether it makes sense to pay attention to such little things, as many believe.

There are many reasons for increased buzzing of the hydraulic power steering. Extraneous noises tell us that there is a problem with the steering. The faster you can fix this problem, the more money you can save and avoid the risk of getting into an accident on the road with a faulty vehicle control system.

Causes of noise

Unpleasant hydraulic power steering noise usually occurs in various situations. Let's look at the simplest reasons why the power steering hums when you turn the steering wheel:

Insufficient fluid level for system operation. This is checked visually. To do this, you need to check the fluid level. The level should be between the minimum and maximum marks. If there is not enough oil and the level is below the minimum, then add fluid. But before such a procedure, it is necessary to immediately find the cause of the oil leak. This is especially true if very little time has passed since adding oil. Leaks usually appear at joints and on clamps, especially on old hoses.
The filled liquid does not meet the specifications recommended by the factory. This usually causes both hum and more serious damage. In winter, the power steering may hum due to the fact that the fluid is not designed to work in special temperature conditions, for example, in severe frosts, even if it meets the recommended parameters.
Poor quality fluid in the system. When purchasing counterfeit oil, there is a high probability that after a certain time it will not have the necessary properties, and the power steering will hum. As usual, along with the hum, you may find that it has become more difficult to turn the steering wheel. In such a situation, it is imperative to check the oil for quality. To do this, you should also check the liquid visually. If the oil becomes very black or lumps have formed in it, it must be replaced with a new one. Ideally, the consistency of the oil should not differ greatly from the new oil. You can check the quality of the oil visually. To do this, draw liquid into a syringe and drip it onto a sheet of white paper. In this case, it is allowed to use any color of liquid, depending on the original brand used. The oil should not be too dark in color. You should also check the smell from the tank. The oil should not smell like burnt oil or burnt rubber. The fluid should be replaced only according to the vehicle manual. Typically, the replacement frequency is about 100 thousand km, or once every two years. If necessary, you need to change the oil. A list of the best power steering oils can always be found.
The penetration of air into the system is a dangerous phenomenon that is harmful to the power steering pump. You should check whether there is foam in the expansion tank or not. If there is foam, you need to bleed the power steering or replace the fluid with another one.
Problems with the steering rack. This can be a serious cause of humming. It is better to make a diagnosis and examination. The main signs of a rack malfunction are a knocking sound in the housing or an extraneous sound from the front wheels. This can occur from damage to gaskets, as well as various boots, steering rod covers. As a result, the working fluid may leak, dirt and dust may penetrate, and knocking may occur. In this case, you need to repair and maintain it using repair kits that are on sale, or go to a service station. You should not drive with a broken steering rack; this usually leads to jamming of the mechanism and, as a result, an accident.
The power steering drive belt is loose. This is very easy to check. This process must be performed when the motor has been running for a specified time (the longer the motor has been running, the easier it is to check it). If the belt slides along the pulley, it quickly heats up. You should verify this by touching it with your hand. To tension the power steering belt, you should know the normal tension force of the belt. If you don’t have a car manual at hand and you have forgotten the magnitude of the force, then you should go to a car workshop. If the belt wears excessively, it should be replaced.
The power steering pump is faulty. This is the most expensive and serious failure. Its main symptom was an increase in the effort required to operate the steering wheel. The reasons for this hum of the power steering pump were various faulty engine parts - oil seals and bearing units.

Power steering hums when cold

There are many different reasons why an unheated power steering can hum. The first reason is air leaks through low pressure channels. To eliminate air leaks, it is necessary to install two clamps on the line going from the tank to the power steering pump. The ring installed on the suction pipe of the pump should also be replaced. After installing the clamps, it is advisable to use an oil-resistant sealant, which should be used to lubricate the joints.

It is also necessary to identify conditionally another reason, the occurrence of which is unlikely. But there are situations when the hydraulic booster channels are insufficiently pumped. In this case, an air area remains at the bottom of the expansion tank, which is removed with a syringe. The presence of this air can create the sound in question.

Elimination techniques can be used to replace the power steering pump, oil hoses, and add additional hose clamps to identify where there is air infiltration.

Additionally, you can perform the following work:

Remove air from the system. When this work is carried out, bubbles form on the surface of the liquid. For them to burst, you need to rotate the steering wheel with the engine not running.
Install a new hose connecting the pump to the reservoir using oil-resistant sealant.
Replace the sealing gasket on the supply in the tank.

Another repair method is to replace the sealing ring in the high-pressure pipe of the power steering (if necessary, you can replace the hose itself, as well as both clamps). Over time, the O-ring loses elasticity, resulting in a loss of tightness, and air entering the system leaks, forming foam and causing knocking. Troubleshooting consists of replacing the sealing ring. Sometimes the problem arises due to the lack of selection of a suitable ring. If you can still find the ring, you should definitely replace it by installing it on the mount and treating it with an oil-resistant sealant.

For some cars, the retail chain has a special kit for repairing the power steering. If problems arise with this mechanism, you first need to purchase a repair kit and replace the rubber gaskets included in the kit. It is advisable to purchase original sets. This is especially important when repairing expensive foreign cars.

You should also monitor the presence of dirt in the fluid of this system. If there is dirt, even in small quantities, then over time this leads to increased wear on the elements of the pump and the hydraulic booster as a whole, as a result of which it will create unpleasant sounds and work less efficiently. This is usually expressed in increased effort when turning the steering wheel, as well as the occurrence of a knock. Therefore, after replacing the fluid, it is necessary to check for dirt at the bottom of the tank. If it is present, then you need to immediately take measures to remove it. It is also necessary to check the presence of a filter in the tank.

It should be free of dirt and damage, and should also fit tightly to the tank. Sometimes it is advisable to replace the entire expansion tank together with the filter at once, instead of cleaning them. Also, in this case, you need to dismantle the rail, disassemble it, wash it, and replace plastic and rubber products. To do this, you need to use the previously discussed repair kit.

An unpleasant hum can be created by the outer bearing of the power steering pump. Its replacement is carried out without much difficulty, and without completely disassembling the mechanism. But sometimes it is difficult to find such a bearing on sale.

There are special additives for mixing them with power steering fluid. They are able to eliminate the unpleasant sound of the pump, reduce the force on the steering wheel, increase the clarity of the power steering, reduce vibration of the pump, and prevent mechanism parts from rapid wear when the oil level is insufficient. But car owners are distrustful of such chemical reagents. In some cases they help, but in others they cause harm and speed up the time for replacing the entire power steering pump.

When selecting a liquid, you should pay attention to the temperature parameters so that it can be used in severe frosts. Oil with high viscosity creates obstacles to the functioning of the hydraulic booster in normal mode.

Power steering hums when warm

If the hydraulic booster creates an unpleasant hum when warm, then there may be many faults. Let's look at several situations and ways to get out of them.

Steering rack faulty. When heated, the liquid reduces its viscosity and can pass through the seals if they are damaged.
If low-quality fluid is poured into the power steering system, this leads to loss of viscosity when heated, as a result of which the pump cannot deliver the required pressure. The solution is to replace the oil with the original brand, flushing the system in advance and pumping it with fresh fluid.
When a knocking noise appears on a hot engine at low speeds, the sound disappears at high speeds. This means that the pump has failed and requires replacement. There are two solutions here - replacing the pump, or replacing high-viscosity fluid in the power steering system.
If the steering wheel vibrates when the engine warms up, then you need to replace the pump or repair it using a repair kit.

It is recommended to use original power steering fluid, judging by the experience of car owners. When using low-quality fluid, power steering elements quickly become unusable, which will entail expensive repairs.

The power steering hums in the left and right positions

You need to know that when the wheels are turned all the way, the power steering pump operates with the greatest load. Therefore, extraneous sounds are created that do not indicate signs of any problems. Many car manufacturers inform you about this in their manuals. In this case, it is important to distinguish sounds associated with system failures from other sounds.

If you are sure that the noise that has arisen is the cause of the malfunction, then you need to perform diagnostics. The main reasons that the hydraulic booster began to hum in the final positions are those that we discussed earlier. This means that you need to check the operation of the pump, the amount of fluid in the tank, the tension of the power steering belt, the transparency of the fluid and the presence of contaminants in it. Other situations are also possible.

It often happens that at the top of the gearbox there is a valve box that serves to control hydraulic flows. When the steering wheel is turned to its final position, the hydraulic flow is closed by a bypass valve, resulting in the fluid flowing in a small circle. In this case, the pump operates on its own, without cooling. This situation negatively affects him and leads to a serious problem. For example, scoring may occur on the pump gates or on the cylinder. In winter, when the liquid is thicker, this is more important. Therefore, you should not keep the wheels in the fully turned position for a long time.

Power steering hums after fluid change

This mechanism may hum if the fluid is changed. Unpleasant noises can be caused by the pump if the oil is filled with too much oil than necessary. The gap between the rotor plates and the stator ring gradually increases due to wear of parts, and the plates vibrate due to stator irregularities.

It is also possible that extraneous sounds may appear when installing new power steering hoses. The cause may be a poor quality hose. Some service stations install regular hydraulic hoses instead of special high-pressure hoses. This causes air to enter the system and the appearance of extraneous sounds. Other reasons are similar to the signs discussed earlier.

Constantly monitor the serviceability of the steering rack, its seals and anthers. This extends its service life and saves money.
If malfunctions or unusual sounds occur, repairs should be made quickly. This will protect the car from accidents.
When parking the car in a parking lot, the wheels must be placed in a level position. This reduces the load on the power steering the next time the engine is started. This is especially noticeable in winter when the oil is thick.
You should not keep the wheels turned for a long time, as this has a negative effect on the pump, which operates without cooling.
Monitor the oil level in the hydraulic booster, change and top it up in a timely manner. You should also check its quality. There is always the possibility of purchasing low-quality oil, which quickly becomes unusable.

The hydraulic booster is provided to simplify the process of turning and performing maneuvers. Proper functioning of the device ensures the creation of the necessary force that the driver previously had to apply.

As problems develop, uncharacteristic sounds may appear, for example, a hum when turning the steering wheel. This should alert you, since such a manifestation indicates the presence of malfunctions.

You need to figure out why the power steering hums when you turn the steering wheel and determine the root cause of the problem. Correcting the problem in a timely manner will avoid a more expensive restoration.

Regular maintenance, compliance with recommendations for replacing the working fluid, and operation are factors that ensure proper operation of the hydraulic booster. Violation of the manufacturer's recommendations often leads to problems - a hum when performing maneuvers.

Main causes of malfunction:

A decrease in the level of working fluid is easy to check; just open the hood and pay attention to the fluid level in the corresponding tank. If the readings are low, you need to top up the working composition, and then find the cause of the leak.
Low quality liquid. The composition must have a certain shade. The appearance of a burnt odor, brown or black tint indicates the need for urgent replacement of the substance. To check, you need to drop oil onto white paper.
Untimely oil change, use of inappropriate compounds. The recommended replacement period reaches 100,000 km. During power steering operation, heavy loads are placed on the system. The ATF oil used in the design is burned out, foreign substances and dirt get into it. Violation of maintenance leads to a significant decrease in fluid quality and breakdowns.
Malfunctions of the steering rack and its components are accompanied by the formation of uncharacteristic sounds. To determine the cause of the malfunction, a thorough inspection of the rack is required. If a malfunction is detected, replacement or restoration is carried out. Failure of the rack occurs as a result of driving on poor surfaces, operation in harsh climatic conditions, exposure to substances and salts used to sprinkle roads.
The entry of air masses into the power steering system is accompanied not only by a hum, but also by a grinding noise and howling of the pump. Occurs due to a decrease in the density of connections; air also enters during replacement work. To fix the problem, you need to determine where the air came from, flush, bleed the system, replacing the working fluid.
Car owners visiting the forum are often reminded of possible problems with the drive belt. When loose, it is easy to get rid of the noise by tightening the belt, but when worn, replacement is required.

It is worth noting that the power steering hums when turning and when there is a pump malfunction. In this case, the breakdown is the most expensive and problematic. The reason may be the bearing, impeller or seals.

Important:

The appearance of hydraulic booster malfunctions is often accompanied not only by the fact that it hums. It becomes much more difficult to turn the steering wheel, and controllability deteriorates, which indicates the need for repairs.

The appearance of signs of malfunction and uncharacteristic sounds during operation of the hydraulic booster is always unpleasant. On forums there are often cases describing the appearance of an unusual sound, hum, grinding or howling in winter. This usually occurs when the ambient temperature drops significantly.

What to do if there is a loud sound or grinding noise?

When the temperature drops significantly, the oil may freeze, this especially applies to non-original products, which are always a little thicker. When starting to work, the power steering pump pumps oil worse and foams the frozen working fluid. As a result, the power steering hums for several seconds, up to a minute in cold weather, but then stops. In this case, there should be no signs of malfunction in the form of a tight steering wheel. When the system warms up, the hum disappears.
When a hum occurs in cold weather, you should also pay attention to the quality of the liquid. If the color has changed, it is worth changing the oil.
An unpleasant sound may appear when the car has been parked for a long time in the cold with the wheels turned out. This leads to an increase in the load on the pump, because the oil becomes thicker. But even during warm periods, it is recommended to leave the car only with aligned wheels.

It is noteworthy that if there are no problems and the uncharacteristic sound heard initially gradually subsides, and the tone changes slightly while turning the steering wheel, you don’t have to worry.

Problems associated with the hydraulic booster can occur in different operating modes - often cold, hot.

The appearance of a hum when the system is warmed up indicates the following problems:

a hum accompanied by vibrations indicates problems with the pump, the need for repair or replacement;
knocking at low speeds, and its disappearance as the speed increases, also indicates an imminent failure of the pump; filling with thicker compounds is considered a temporary option;
Filling with low-quality liquid will lead to the fact that, when heated too much, it will become too liquid and will not be able to provide the required pressure;
when the rack is faulty, there are problems with the seals, heated fluid will leak out, the level will drop, and power steering performance will deteriorate.

The reasons that lead to the power steering humming when cold require special attention. The main problem is the ingress of air masses penetrating through low pressure lines.

In search of a way out, it is worth using clamps for the tube connecting the tank and the pump, additionally using an oil-resistant sealant. It may be necessary to replace O-rings and hoses, which become more rigid over time, losing their tightness.

Other causes of hum when cold:

poor-quality pumping of the system - contributes to the formation of an air bubble on the bottom, specialists remove it using a syringe;
contamination of the system, the ingress of foreign particles into the liquid leads to disruptions in the operation of the hydraulic booster and accelerates wear of the elements; It is recommended to check the condition of the bottom of the tank during replacement, paying attention to the filter;
failure of the external bearing can also lead to the development of unpleasant symptoms; the process of replacing it does not require special skills.

It is important to use high-quality consumables, original oils, and repair kits in your work.

An uncharacteristic hum of the power steering can also occur after replacing or pouring new oil into the system. This happens in cases where the power steering has already worked for some time and the point of wear is approaching.

The main elements of the mechanical part are represented by the stator ring and rotor plates. Gradually, irregularities appear on the inner surface of the ring, which leads to the formation of gaps and is accompanied by vibrations of the plates.

If liquid oil is used in the system, the pump will not be able to operate properly. In such cases, it is recommended to fill with thicker, non-original compounds, which will ensure comfortable operation of the system.

Thus, the power steering hums after replacing the fluid in the case where thicker oil was previously used or there is wear on the mechanical component.

An unpleasant hum also appears after carrying out certain work to replace the high-pressure hose. Unscrupulous craftsmen may not use a hose specially designed for such operating conditions, but a regular hydraulic one. As a result, the system will become airy, which will cause a lot of inconvenience.

You can avoid many troubles with power steering by following simple recommendations:

you need to regularly check the level and condition of the oil;
it is advisable to avoid long delays of the wheels in the extreme position;
do not leave the car in the parking lot with the wheels turned out;
You need to periodically check the condition of the steering rack.

Timely troubleshooting and selection of high-quality consumables avoids the need for serious restoration of the hydraulic booster and helps reduce maintenance costs.

The appearance of extraneous sounds in a car is always unpleasant. It is even more unpleasant when the knocking or hum is of unknown origin. Sometimes motorists spend days, and sometimes even months, searching for and eliminating the cause of a particular sound.

One of the many mysterious and mysterious sounds that can appear during the operation of a car is a hum in the engine area, which appears when the steering wheel is turned. Looking ahead, I will say that this hum is associated with the power steering and there may be several reasons for its appearance; read on for more details about each of them. Today, as you guessed, I will again try to help those who need it. In this article I will tell you why the power steering hums, as well as how to fix it. In the previous article we talked about, this time we will talk about why is the power steering humming?.

Many motorists face this problem and react to the appearance of a hum in different ways. Some throw all their efforts into finding the reason why the power steering is humming, others do not attach much importance to it. In fact, there is cause for concern, since the hum is a sign of a malfunction, which, if left uncorrected, can cost you dearly.

What is power steering?

For those who are not in the know, power steering (Power Steering) is a complex technological invention designed to make life easier for motorists. While you turn the steering wheel of your car with one hand, the power steering does the hard work; it is the power steering that creates the necessary force so that you don’t “strain” when turning the steering wheel. You can read more about this device on the Internet, but I won’t go deeper. Instead, I will continue about why the power steering hums.

Power steering hums when turning the steering wheel - reasons

Low power steering fluid level in the tank (special ATF oil is poured into it - Automatic Transmission Fluid, almost the same as poured into). You can check whether this is so or the reason is something else quite simply, just open the hood and check the fluid level in the power steering reservoir. If the oil level in the reservoir is low, it is necessary to replace the power steering fluid completely, but before that you should find the reason why this fluid has left the reservoir.

The second reason why power steering hums - poor quality power steering fluid. Over time, due to high loads and hundreds of thousands of laps along the highway, the ATF gets diluted, burns out, gets dirty, and God knows what it’s doing. In a word, the power steering fluid needs to be changed from time to time (about once every two years or every 70-100 thousand kilometers). It is quite difficult to check the condition of the liquid; as a rule, this is done by eye. You need to unscrew the reservoir cap and take a drop of ATF, then drop it onto white paper. A burgundy, red or crimson color of power steering fluid is considered normal; brown, dark brown or black is unacceptable. The smell of burnt rubber or burnt oil in the power steering reservoir is also unacceptable; if such a smell is present, it is recommended to replace the ATF.

Irregularities or . In some cases, due to malfunctions of the steering rack or some of its parts, a hum may appear in the power steering. To confirm or refute suspicions, it is necessary to inspect the steering rack and power steering as a whole. in this case - a last resort. Today you can find workshops that, using repair kits, replace the steering rack.

Aired system. The howling and grinding sound of the power steering pump can occur due to air contained in the power steering system. There are plenty of reasons why air got into the hydraulic system, from simple airing during replacement to air leaks through loose connections in the system. In any case, adding fluid does not solve anything; an integrated approach is required - searching for the source of air leaks, flushing the system, and also properly pumping the system, allowing you to completely remove air from it.

It happens that the power steering hums when you turn the steering wheel due to loose or excessively worn drive belt. In this case, it is enough to tighten the belt or replace it.

Power steering pump malfunction. This breakdown is the most unpleasant and, perhaps, the most expensive from a financial point of view. Problems with the power steering pump can arise due to a faulty bearing, pump impeller, or seals. Malfunctions of the power steering pump often manifest themselves not only in the form of a hum; very often its malfunctions are indicated by a “stiff steering wheel”, when turning the steering wheel you feel a large load on your hands. To understand that power steering hum appears as a result of a malfunction of the pump, it is quite difficult, so for diagnosis, most likely, you will have to turn to professionals.

So that you don't have to rack your brains about why does the power steering howl? When turning the steering wheel, certain rules must be followed.

Change the power steering fluid regularly and monitor its level.
Try not to hold the steering wheel in the extreme right/left position for long (more than 10 seconds), this is harmful to the power steering pump.
When leaving the car in a parking lot, try to align the wheels, this will take the load off the power steering pump when you next start the engine. This advice is especially relevant in winter, when even ATF oil thickens.
At the first sign of a power steering malfunction (the power steering hums, the steering wheel turns hard, etc.), do not delay repairs.
Monitor the condition of the steering rack, boots and steering tips. Replacing each of the above parts will cost less than completely replacing the power steering or steering rack.