Steering feels heavy - Cars & Trucks

this is the Electric Power Steering light , would be indicating a problem , does the steering feel heavy ?if not have the OBD codes read and any stored code cleared ,this may resolve the light staying on , if the steering feels ok it might have set the light off after going over a large bump for example, if the light comes back on then take to a repair shop as you dont want the steering to fail when driving

how are the tyre pressures ?

If you feel it heavy on low RPM first see if the fluid level is in range and if it is you can change it . The fluid have a lifespan just like the brake fluid and have to be changed in few ears.

Hi Sherman

You have to do this test to find out why the steering is heavy.
after you check the steering fluid level and top it up if needed.
start the engine let it IDLE try to turn steering and feel how hard or soft is.
Now rev the engine up to 2500 rpm and keep holding the rev. test the steering while you still holdind the rev.
if you feel no difference, the problem is the steering rack it self.
if the steering get softer while you rev up, the problem is the power steering pump.
Good Luck

Check the power steering fluid, it could be that it's just low. If it's full it might be time to get it changed. Also check the tension on the motor belt. If it's loose you won't get full power to the pump.

Have you checked the power steering container, to make sure you have power steering fluid in it?
The steering will be feeling heavy, and hard to steer the car, if the power steering fluid is too low, or empty.

Some cars have progressive power steering, light at slow speeds for parking etc. But at speed a heavier feel so you can feel what the grip is like on the front tyres when driven hard. But check the power steering fluid level as well, the pump could be leaking.

This usually happens when pump has internal wear, lowering pressure output. Not always noisy either. If caster is set too far positive that can make heavy wheel as well. If pump dosent make enough difference, take one alignment shim out of the rear of each control arm and install at front pack. This may change toe in a bit so watch tires and adjust accordingly.

If someone has adjusted the adjustment at the top of the steering box too tight you will have that type of feel in the steering.