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Stay Headed in the Right Direction, Dexter

February 27, 2022

Power steering is standard on nearly every vehicle in Dexter, Missouri, these days. Now there are some exotic, new types of power steering systems, but for the most part, the general setup is a pump that's driven by a belt powered by the engine.

Contact the automotive professionals at Charlie's Fast Lube Dexter in Dexter for questions about your power steering.

The pump generates power that assists drivers as they steer their vehicle around Dexter, Missouri. Power steering systems use hoses to move pressurized fluid back and forth. These hoses can develop leaks so it's a good idea to have Charlie's Fast Lube Dexter inspect them at every oil change.

A check of the power steering fluid level is on the list for every full service oil change at Charlie's Fast Lube Dexter because low fluid can damage the power steering pump. And the fluid needs to be compatible with the hoses and seals, so it's important to use the correct type – just ask your service advisor at Charlie's Fast Lube Dexter.

In addition to providing a boost, the fluid cleans, cools and lubricates the power steering system. Over time, the lubricants and detergents diminish so Dexter drivers need to replace their old fluid with clean, fresh fluid periodically.

Excess moisture can collect in the power steering fluid as well. That can lead to rust and corrosion as well as reduce the effectiveness of the fluid. Many outline power steering service intervals in the owner's manual. Unfortunately, this service is sometimes left off the maintenance schedule. For Dexter drivers who are not sure, every two years is a good rule of thumb. 

At Charlie's Fast Lube Dexter, we use a detergent to clean the system, flush out the old fluid and replace it with new fluid.

Now, if you are experiencing high steering effort, erratic power assist or loud whining coming from the pump, you may have a power steering problem. Another sign is having to frequently top off the fluid.

Holding the steering wheel to the far right or left for more than a few seconds at a time can wear your pump out quickly. We want you to be sure to service your power steering system regularly at your service center, or Charlie's Fast Lube Dexter in Dexter, to keep you headed in the right direction.

Charlie's Fast Lube Dexter
414 N 1 Mile Rd.
Dexter, Missouri 63841
573-614-7886
https://charliesfastlubedexter.com

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