What Is Power Steering?

Power steering on cars became widely available in the 1950s, according to Sportscomet.com. It is important because it makes automobiles much easier for the average person to use. The average modern person would not want to drive a car lacking power steering.

Beginning

Power steering was invented so drivers could apply less pressure to the steering wheel to make the car turn. It serves as an external source that helps the driver change directions.

Operation

According to Autoevolution.com, power steering systems mix power from the engine and hydraulics to perform. The systems have been found to run smoothly on either engine power or hydraulics alone.

Future

Power steering systems in the 20th century use a lot of fuel and horsepower to run because the system constantly pumps fluid. Corporations are working to make the system purely electronic instead of mechanical, making it more efficient.

Service

When a mechanic recommends that you service your power steering, you should do it, according to Cartalk.com. The mechanic will flush your old power steering fluid and replace it with new fluid.

Other Steering Types

Servotronic is speed-dependent meaning the car ride is much smoother and electronics sense how much power is needed. Variable gear ratio steering, introduced in 2000, means the faster the speed, the tighter the steering ratio.

References

• Auto Evolution
• Car Talk

Resources

• Sports Comet