What to Expect With a Power Steering Service
1. Schedule Your Appointment
Whether scheduling online or over the phone be sure and let us know what you're experiencing so we can provide fast and accurate service advice.
2. Diagnostics and Inspections
Drop off your vehicle and the shop will get to work with inspections and diagnostics using the same equipment as the manufacturers to determine issues and next steps.
3. Digital Vehicle Inspection Report and Estimate
Following the diagnosis we will text you a digital vehicle inspection report, containing pictures and videos of our findings and recommendations.
4. Review and Approval
A service advisor will reach out to walk you through the findings and recommendations to determine how you would like to proceed, or you can approve work directly in your DVI.
5. Work Performed or Scheduled
Most work can be completed immediately, or scheduled based on parts and customer availability.
Did You Know: It takes up to three football fields to safely brake in the rain?
Common Power Steering Warning Signs You Should Not Ignore
Steering problems often start with subtle changes that threaten safety if left unchecked. You might hear whining or squealing noises during low-speed turns, such as when parking. These sounds usually point to low fluid levels, air bubbles in the lines, or a worn pump that needs immediate professional attention.
Physical sensations also warn of failure, such as the wheel feeling heavy or stiff while turning. You might spot reddish or amber fluid puddles under the front of your car, indicating leaks. Ignoring these signs often leads to accelerated pump wear and a sudden, dangerous loss of steering assist.
- Whining Sounds: Indicates low fluid levels, air bubbles, or a worn-out steering pump struggling to operate.
- Heavy Wheel: Signals declining power assist or internal blockages, making it difficult to turn from a stop.
- Fluid Puddles: Reddish or clear spots under the vehicle suggest active leaks from hoses, seals, or racks.
- Wheel Shudder: Inconsistent jerking or vibration while turning points to internal component wear or severe fluid issues.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is It Safe To Keep Driving If My Steering Feels Heavy?
It is generally not a good idea to continue driving far if your steering suddenly feels much heavier or harder to turn. Increased steering effort can make it more difficult to avoid obstacles or maneuver at low speeds, especially in parking lots and tight streets. In some cases, heavier steering can indicate low fluid or a failing pump, and driving in that condition can lead to more damage.
If the steering is only slightly heavier and the vehicle is otherwise behaving normally, you may be able to drive a short distance to our shop, but it is wise to check with us first. If the steering is extremely difficult to turn, or if you hear loud noises along with the change in feel, contact us so we can help you decide on the safest plan. Your safety comes first, and we are happy to talk through what you are experiencing before you make that decision.
What Could Be Causing The Whining Noise When I Turn The Wheel?
A whining or groaning noise when you turn the steering wheel often points to an issue in the power steering system. Common causes include low fluid level, air that has entered the system through a leak, a worn pump, or a slipping belt on some vehicles. In each case, the noise is a sign that the system is not operating as smoothly as it should.
Because several different problems can produce similar sounds, an inspection is the best way to find the real cause. Our ASE-certified technicians can check fluid level and condition, look for leaks, listen to where the noise is coming from, and test steering response. Once we understand the source, we explain it in clear language and recommend repairs or services that address the issue directly.
How Long Does Power Steering Repair Usually Take?
The time needed for a power steering repair can vary based on what we find during inspection. Some services, such as correcting fluid level or performing a fluid exchange, may be completed in a shorter visit. More involved repairs, such as replacing a steering pump or rack assembly, typically take longer because of the parts involved and the steps required to remove and install components correctly.
Factors that affect timing include the specific repair needed, the design of your vehicle, and parts availability. Once we diagnose the problem, we provide a time estimate along with the cost estimate so you know what to expect. If your vehicle needs to stay with us for several hours or more, our complimentary shuttle can help you get where you need to go while we work.
Can You Give Me An Estimate Before You Start Any Steering Work?
Yes, our process is built around providing you with an estimate before any steering repair begins. We first inspect your vehicle to identify the cause of the problem, then prepare a detailed estimate that outlines the recommended work and associated costs. We review this estimate with you, answer your questions, and only proceed once you approve the plan.
Our goal is to make sure you always understand what you are paying for and why a particular repair or service is being recommended. If there are options, such as addressing the most urgent safety item first and planning other maintenance for a later date, we walk through those choices with you. You stay in control of the decisions, and we provide the information you need to feel comfortable with your choice.
Does Your Warranty Cover Power Steering Parts & Labor?
Our industry-leading warranty applies to the work we perform, including steering-related parts and labor, according to the terms we provide at the time of service. When we install a new pump, rack, or other qualified component, that work is covered under our warranty, which is designed to give you peace of mind after the repair. Specific coverage details, such as time or mileage, are available from our team so you know exactly how you are protected.
This warranty reflects our confidence in our technicians and the quality of the parts we use. If you have questions about how the warranty applies to a particular steering service on your vehicle, we are happy to explain it before any work begins. We want you to feel secure not only when you leave our shop, but throughout the life of the repair.
Do I Need An Appointment For Power Steering Issues, Or Can I Just Stop By?
We encourage you to schedule an appointment for steering concerns so we can plan adequate time to inspect your vehicle and discuss our findings with you. An appointment helps reduce your wait and ensures that a bay and technician will be available to look at your car as soon as possible. That said, we understand that some issues feel urgent, and we do our best to accommodate those situations.
If your steering problem appears suddenly or becomes severe, calling us before you come in allows us to advise you about safety and availability. We can let you know the best time to arrive or help you set an appointment that fits your schedule. Our goal is to make the process smooth and respectful of your time.
Will You Explain What You Find, Even If I Decide Not To Repair It Today?
Yes, we are committed to explaining what we find, whether you choose to move forward with repairs right away or not. After our inspection, we share our observations, show you problem areas when possible, and describe what could happen if an issue is left unaddressed. We understand that budget and timing are real concerns, and sometimes repairs need to be planned.
We work with you to prioritize safety-related items and differentiate them from maintenance that can be scheduled for a later date. You can take that information home, think about it, and contact us when you are ready. Throughout the process, our focus remains on education, respect, and helping you make the choice that is right for you.
Schedule Your Power Steering Service With Our Team
If you are noticing changes in the way your steering feels or sounds, you do not have to figure it out alone. Our team at Christian Brothers Automotive Bryan is ready to inspect your vehicle, explain what we find in clear language, and provide the power steering service Bryan drivers need to feel confident behind the wheel again. Whether it turns out to be a simple service or a more involved repair, you will know your options before any work begins.
When you choose us, you receive the benefit of ASE-certified technicians, manufacturer-quality equipment, an industry-leading warranty, and a people-first approach that treats you like a neighbor. Our complimentary shuttle and comfortable environment help reduce the stress of being without your vehicle, and our on-site owners work to ensure you receive honest, reliable care. To get started or to ask a question about a steering concern, contact our team today.
Call (979) 325-3348 or schedule online your visit or speak with our team about your steering concerns.
Your Local Christian Brothers Amenities
FAQs
-
Q. "How do I know if my power steering is starting to fail?"3 common signs are that your wheel is requiring more force to turn, whining noise when turning, or your steering shakes when idle. If you are worried about your power steering failing, contact your local Christian Brothers today to have our experienced technicians take a look.
-
Q. "How often do I need to get my power steering fluid replaced?"The average recommendation is between 40,000 and 80,000 miles, but it varies depending on your manufacturer's recommendations.
-
Q. "Why do I need to change my power steering fluid?"With time, the power steering fluid in your vehicle loses its potency and can become contaminated. Fluid with foreign materials and dirt floating around in it is less efficient, meaning the pump works harder and is worn down faster. Putting new fluid in is much more cost-effective than buying a new pump.
-
Q. "What do I do if my power steering fails while driving?"If your power steering fails while driving, it will require quite a bit of force to turn the wheel. Carefully pull to the side of the roadand call a tow truck to safely get your vehicle to an automotive shop.
-
Q. "What is a Digital Vehicle Inspection?"With a complimentary Digital Vehicle Inspection (DVI) on every visit, you’ll see firsthand photos of your vehicle from under the hood. We’ll let you know if everything is functioning properly or if there are any areas of concern. You can even approve or deny our service recommendations, all straight from your smartphone, or you can, of course, give us a call and we’ll explain our findings in further detail.
-
Q. "Do you offer a warranty?"As part of our Nice difference.® commitment to providing our customers the best auto service experience possible, we also offer a 3-year/36,000-mile warranty on all the work that we do. We offer this warranty at every Christian Brothers Automotive nationwide, and it will be honored at any location, regardless of which branch did the initial work.
Have more Questions?
Our friendly auto service experts have the answers.
Call your local Christian Brothers Automotive car shop today
Hear What Our Customers Had to Say About Us
-
"I saw a coupon on FB and signed my son up for an oil change. He and his wife Said it was The best Oil change experience ever. We were so happy we Sent our daughter to get her oil changed. Wow!!! They treated us like royalty. Best place... car inspection do"
- Wendy Sowell