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.
We use BG power steering fluid and BG power steering system cleaners for every fluid flush procedure. Replacement fluid is matched to your vehicle’s manufacturer’s standards, so your steering system gets exactly what it was designed to run on.
Power Steering Warning Signs & Service Details
Signs Your Power Steering System Needs Attention
Power steering problems rarely appear without warning, and catching them early can help you avoid more expensive repairs down the road. Watch for these common symptoms:
- Steering wheel requires noticeably more force to turn than usual
- Whining or groaning noise when turning the wheel
- Steering wheel shakes or feels loose at idle
- Visible fluid leak under the front end of the vehicle
- Power steering fluid that appears dark, gritty, or carries a burnt smell, which may indicate contamination requiring a flush
What a Power Steering Service Covers
Our certified technicians begin by assessing the full condition of your power steering system before recommending any course of action. If a power steering fluid flush is appropriate, we clean out the system and restore it using BG power steering fluid and BG power steering system cleaners. This process differs from simply topping off fluid: it removes degraded fluid and contaminants from the entire system. Contaminated or low fluid is a common cause of steering problems and can accelerate pump wear if it’s left unaddressed.
Fluid replacement intervals vary by manufacturer, and most vehicles fall somewhere in the 40,000- to 80,000-mile range as a general average. The right interval for your vehicle depends on your manufacturer’s recommendation, which our technicians will reference during your inspection. If the power steering belt or pump shows a more serious problem, we provide repair options so you can make an informed decision about next steps.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Happens if My Power Steering Fails While I’m Driving?
If your power steering fails on the road, your steering wheel will require significant force to turn. Pull safely to the side of the road and arrange a tow to bring the vehicle in. Continuing to drive a vehicle with failed power steering can make an already difficult situation more dangerous.
How Often Should I Have My Power Steering Fluid Flushed?
The interval varies by manufacturer. A general range of 40,000 to 80,000 miles is often cited, but your vehicle’s manufacturer’s recommendation for your specific make and model takes priority. During your inspection, our certified technicians will reference those specifications and let you know where your vehicle stands.
Does the Warranty Cover Power Steering Repair?
Yes. Power steering repair work performed at our Gretna location is covered by the Nice difference.® warranty: 3 years or 36,000 miles. The warranty is honored at any Christian Brothers Automotive location nationwide, so you’re protected whether you’re at home or traveling.
Can I Approve or Decline Service Recommendations Before Work Begins?
Yes. Our Digital Vehicle Inspection (DVI) sends findings and photos directly to your smartphone. You review the report and approve or decline individual recommendations from your device before our technicians begin any work. You stay in control of every decision.
Do You Service Both Hydraulic & Electric Power Steering Systems?
Both hydraulic power steering systems and electric power steering (EPS) systems can develop faults. The type of system in your vehicle affects what service is appropriate. A standard power steering inspection includes checking fluid level and condition, hoses and lines for leaks, belt tension, and pump operation. Our technicians can identify what your specific system needs and walk you through the options.
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.