How long does the power steering hose last?
Chances are your car's power steering system is hydraulic - most of them are. Electronic power steering (EPS) is becoming more common and older manual type systems still exist, but hydraulic systems are the most common.
This means that your power steering system relies on a reservoir, a pump, and a series of lines and hoses to carry fluid from the reservoir to the power steering rack and back. These hoses include high pressure lines (metal) and low pressure lines (rubber). Both are subject to wear and will eventually need to be replaced.
Your car's power steering hoses are used every time the engine is running. When the engine is running, power steering fluid circulates through the system. When you turn the steering wheel, the pump increases pressure to reduce the amount of effort needed to turn the steering wheel, but there is always fluid in the system.
Both metal and rubber hoses are subject to high temperatures as well as corrosive power steering fluid, varying pressures and other threats that will eventually lead to system degradation. Although the power steering hose does not have a service life specified, it is a normal maintenance item and should be checked regularly. They should be replaced when they show signs of wear or leakage.
If your hoses wear too much, it is possible that one or more of them will fail while driving. This will result in loss of steering control, making it difficult (but not impossible) to turn the steering wheel. This will also cause the power steering fluid to leak. This fluid is highly flammable and may ignite on contact with a very hot surface (such as an exhaust pipe).
Some of the more common signs and symptoms that may indicate a problem include the following:
- Cracks in rubber
- Rust on metal lines or connectors
- Blisters on rubber
- Moisture or other signs of leakage at the ends of the hose or anywhere in the hose body
- Smell of burning liquid
- Low power steering fluid level in reservoir
If you are experiencing any of the symptoms, a certified mechanic can help check, diagnose, and fix a problem with your power steering system.
