Understand the culprit behind many accidents: locked steering wheel. What are the causes and how to handle it when it happens?

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Understand the culprit behind many accidents: locked steering wheel. What are the causes and how to handle it when it happens?

Undesirable accidents on the road can happen at any time. One of those that often leads to major losses is the locked steering wheel.

If you don't know how to handle the locked steering wheel, it can lead to such an accident. Therefore, it is better to know the cause of this problem and how to handle it when it actually happens.

Today, PTT Lubricants will tell you more about the locked steering wheel, including why it happens and how to handle it. If you are ready, let’s go!

 

Steering systems in cars are typically divided into 2 types: electric steering systems and hydraulic steering systems (Power steering). Both of these systems are designed by engineers to work immediately when you turn the steering wheel in different directions so that you can safely steer your car.

Despite having lower chances to happen, locked steering wheel can still happen under certain circumstances. The causes of the locked steering wheel are as follows:

 

🔹 Deteriorated steering rack

Deteriorated steering rack can occur if used for a long time. If you notice that the steering wheel does not return to the center, vibrates, or jerks after turning, it is recommended to have your car inspected at the service center so that the technician can fix it as soon as possible.

 

🔹 Leaked steering rack

The leak can be observed from the amount of oil in the steering fluid tank (power oil) and whether there is any liquid dripping on the ground when parked. It is recommended to have the car inspected and fixed right away if any of the following is found:

  • Leak is found 
  • The steering wheel feels heavier when making any turn
  • The steering doesn’t return to the center when turned
  • Noise is heard under the accelerator
  • An abnormal sound is heard when turning the steering wheel 

 

🔹 Some parts of the steering system are damaged

Damage of parts can occur from long-term use. If any part inside the system is damaged, the steering wheel will feel heavy or become difficult to control as if the  steering wheel was locked. This can be a result of deterioration of rack ball joint, slack belt, and shock absorber. It can also happen if the front wheel bearing or ball joint becomes loose.

 

All of these can lead to heavy steering and more free spin range which will make it difficult to control the direction of the car. It is recommended to have the steering system inspected and fixed right away if any of the signs is found.

However, regardless of the steering system type, if drivers use more force to control the steering wheel, the steering system will still work even when the power assistance system is broken. This applies to both electric and hydraulic types. Most importantly, always remain calm and use the standard speed so that when the steering wheel locks, you will be able to handle as safely as possible.

And that concludes the information about the locked steering wheel that car users should not overlook. Always check the various systems in your car every time before driving, especially the steering system. Also, don't forget to always check the condition of the steering fluid for the safety of yourself and your companions. With care from PTT Lubricants 💙

 

Learn more about the steering fluid at: https://pttlubricants.pttor.com/product_detail/1/1/14