Our Simple 3-Step Process
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.
Convenience Built Into Every Visit
We know your time matters, so we offer complimentary shuttle service so you’re not stuck waiting while your vehicle is being serviced. Drop off your car and get back to your day.
Every visit includes a free Digital Vehicle Inspection (DVI) with actual photos of your vehicle’s condition. You can review the findings and approve or decline recommendations directly from your smartphone, no phone calls required. Our courtesy inspections also cover major systems including lights, brakes, suspension, tires, and battery. Free Wi-Fi is available in the waiting area if you’d prefer to stay.
Understanding Your Power Steering System
How the Hydraulic Power Steering System Works
The power steering pump is driven by a belt and pushes pressurized fluid through the system to the steering gear. That hydraulic pressure is what makes turning the wheel feel smooth and responsive, especially at low speeds. Over time, power steering fluid breaks down and becomes contaminated, reducing its ability to protect system components and deliver consistent steering pressure. A power steering fluid flush drains the degraded fluid and replaces it with fresh fluid that meets the manufacturer’s specifications.
Signs Your Power Steering System Needs Attention
A common warning sign is a steering wheel that suddenly requires more effort to turn, particularly at low speeds or while parking. You might also hear a whining or groaning noise when turning, which can point to low or contaminated fluid or a pump under stress. Steering vibration or shudder at idle may indicate a pump or fluid pressure issue. Visible fluid puddles under a parked vehicle can signal a power steering fluid leak. Any of these symptoms are worth having checked before they affect your ability to control the vehicle safely.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Often Should Power Steering Fluid Be Replaced?
Power steering fluid replacement is generally recommended somewhere between 40,000 and 80,000 miles, though the exact interval varies by manufacturer recommendation. Checking the fluid level and condition at every oil change is a straightforward way to catch degradation early before it affects steering performance.
What Should I Do If Power Steering Fails While Driving?
If power steering fails while you’re driving, the vehicle can still be steered. It will just require significantly more force than you’re used to. The recommended response is to carefully pull to the side of the road and arrange for the vehicle to be inspected at a shop before driving it further.
Does My Vehicle Use Hydraulic or Electric Power Steering?
Not all vehicles use a hydraulic power steering system. Some newer vehicles use electric power steering (EPS), which doesn’t require fluid service but can still develop motor or sensor issues. If you’re unsure which system your vehicle uses, our certified technicians can identify it during your inspection and let you know what service, if any, applies.
Your Local Christian Brothers Amenities
FAQs
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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
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"I liked the customer service and going above and beyond to make sure I was comfortable while waiting in the store for my vehicle work to be done, specifically being offered a nice hot coffee with creamer."
- J.L.