The steering control of cars has the same device as a similar system in cars with internal combustion engines and performs the same functions: determining the direction of movement of the vehicle. During operation of an electric vehicle, the steering wheel is subjected to shock loads; if tightened incorrectly, the friction force increases, which leads to wear and tear of the steering wheel. The consequence of this is a deterioration in safety, controllability, and a reduction in the service life of critical components and parts.
What does the steering system consist of?
This system combines the following groups of mechanisms:
- Steering column with wheel. This group also includes the shaft, column casing with bearings and fasteners for connecting these parts.
- Steering mechanism. It may have a different design (gear - rack, worm - gear sector, volumetric hydraulic drive, etc.), but its task is the same - converting the rotation of the steering wheel into translational or rotary movement of the steering drive;
- Drive - includes rods and levers. The task of the drive is to transfer the turning force from the steering mechanism to the front wheels.
- Almost all modern cars are equipped with power steering. Previously, it did not exist, so it was difficult to turn the steering wheel, but now, thanks to the amplifier, control becomes easy and comfortable.
Causes of steering system breakdowns
All mechanical systems are subject to wear, and the steering in this sense is no exception. Wear and tear occurs even if the rules of vehicle operation are followed, not to mention the damage received when hitting an obstacle and accidents. Road quality and corrosion contribute to wear and tear. Steering diagnostics often reveal the following relationship between symptoms and causes of the problem:
- Loss of effort on the steering wheel - wear on the rotor pair of the power steering pump. The hydraulic part and the level of hydraulic oil in the tank are checked;
- Disappearance of force on the steering wheel when positioning it in the central position - due to water hammer, a pothole has formed on the inner wall of the hydraulic cylinder housing;
- Slow reaction of the wheels to turning the steering wheel - problems with the steering rack, the teeth of the rack rod may have worn out;
- Steering wheel jamming - deformation of the rack rod or the rack itself;
- Oil leaks from the steering column housing - wear of rubber seals, damage and corrosion of the shaft.
If such symptoms appear, as well as other deviations from normal operation (for example, when noise appears), you must urgently contact a specialized service station, since operating a car with faulty steering is prohibited.
Diagnostics of steering control of electric vehicles
Comprehensive and special diagnostics are performed not only when symptoms of malfunctions appear. Comprehensive diagnostics (together with other car systems) must be carried out on a scheduled basis at least once a year, including in the following cases:
- Long downtime of the electric vehicle. With temperature changes, the oil dries out, steering parts turn sour and rust, so before resuming operation of the car, it is necessary to check for serviceability;
- Driving on bad roads, as a result of which the steering rods and ends become loose, backlashes appear, oil leaks appear, the power steering pump begins to hum;
- Prolonged stagnation of power steering oil, in which metal shavings can accumulate.
- Special diagnostics are aimed at identifying problems only in steering parts and are divided into the following stages:
- A mechanism with a suspected malfunction is dismantled, undergoes bench diagnostics, refurbishment, or is completely replaced;
- Consumable elements are replaced - tips, rods, seals, after which a test check of the operation of the corresponding mechanism is performed;
- When the check shows that the problem lies in more than one steering control, a comprehensive diagnosis is performed.
For repairs and maintenance of the steering control of electric vehicles, it is recommended to contact a specialized car service - this way diagnostics and repairs will be as effective and high-quality as possible.
Our services
Our car service is one of those that specializes in repairing the steering control of electric vehicles and performs:
- Diagnostics of the steering system;
- Replacement and restoration of the steering rack;
- Repair and replacement of power steering;
- Replacing tie rod ends;
- Replacement and repair of the steering column;
- Replacing the power steering belt and hose;
- Replacing the steering crosspiece;
- Replacing the steering cardan and other types of work.
Professional equipment and the best specialists are at your service, but in order for the repair to be as effective as possible, we recommend contacting us at the first symptoms of abnormal steering function. The absence of imposed services, a guarantee for the result of work, a courteous attitude towards the customer are another of our advantages.
