One of the most overlooked components, and one that can be the most beneficial in keeping your power steering system in good working order, is the power steering hose. It allows the pressurized power steering rack to stabilize the turn rate of the steering wheel. Lack of performance of the vehicle's steering mechanism can quickly cause your vehicle's safety to be reduced, sometimes significantly depending on the size of the leak.
Investing in a heavy-duty replacement part is the best way to maintain precise control of your vehicle and assure that you and your family will be safe while you're driving. A typical system has both a high-pressure and a low-pressure hose, but may or may not use compression fittings depending on the system specs. Power steering hoses add value by adding energy to the steering mechanism, making it easier to turn the wheel and point the vehicle in the correct direction.
Here are a few tips to consider when choosing a power steering hose:
Budget: While saving money when you're repairing your vehicle is always a good thing, price does influence quality. When you're replacing your steering hoses there are a wide range of styles and prices to choose from so it is best to buy from a trusted manufacturer or an OEM (original equipment manufacturer) part that will not break your budget.
Custom hoses: Hoses can be fabricated for your specific needs, and some are designed by hose makers to withstand a great deal of pressure. However, there's always a potential that they're an overkill for your specific needs and custom hoses do tend to be more expensive than standard styles.
Replace both high and low-pressure at the same time: Hoses are offered in a variety of different options - and generally are sold in high-pressure and low-pressure pairs. Replacing both at the same time helps you make sure that you're keeping your vehicle safe in all driving conditions.
If replacing one, be aware which one: One of the two hoses will direct fluid from the steering mechanisms, while the other one directs it back from the pump. Be sure you know which of the two hoses is causing the leak so you can replace only one if it's specifically problematic.
Checking your hoses, gauges and pumps often allows you to keep your vehicle in top working order, and working as safely as possible.
YourMechanic supplies top-quality power steering hoses to our certified mobile technicians. We can also install a power steering hose that you've purchased. Click here to get a quote and more information on power steering hose replacement.
