1970s: Power steering becomes standard in cars In the 1970s, power steering racks gradually changed from an optional configuration to a standard configuration for most cars on the US market. In particular, as the size and weight of cars increased further, manual steering systems became increasingly impractical.

The power steering gear is connected to the vehicle's steering link, which is directly connected to the wheel knuckle. When replacing the power steering gear, the steering link must be removed from the steering knuckle.

If the power steering pump is over-operated for a long time, especially when driving at low speed or parking, the pump will generate too much heat due to excessive load, which will directly accelerate the deterioration of the fluid.

Manual steering system: no steering fluid is required. Hydraulic power steering system: steering fluid is required. The steering fluid in the hydraulic system is responsible for transmitting pressure, lubrication and heat dissipation. Electronic power steering system: no steering fluid is required.

Some reports indicate that in the case of severe leaks, if the owner checks the fluid level before starting the vehicle and replenishes the fluid in time, the vehicle can be driven for about 400 miles. However, this practice is only a temporary measure and is not a long-term solution.

Once a leak occurs, the hydraulic pressure of the system will drop, resulting in weakened power assistance or complete failure. In this case, the driver needs to use more force to turn the steering wheel, especially parking and turning operations at low speeds will become very difficult.

If the gears inside the steering rack are worn or loose, it may make an abnormal knocking sound when the steering wheel is turned. In addition, insufficient lubrication of the steering gear may also cause this situation.

The weight of the power steering rack varies depending on the model and design. Generally, its weight ranges from 10 kg to 30 kg. The hydraulic power steering rack is usually heavier than the electric power steering rack. This is because the hydraulic power steering system needs to include components such as hydraulic pumps, fuel tanks, pipes and control valves.

The Buick brand truly applied the power steering system to mass-produced models on the Buick Roadmaster launched in 1952. As the flagship model of the Buick brand at the time, Roadmaster represented Buick's highest level in the field of luxury cars.

The main components of power steering fluid are mineral oil or synthetic oil, which become more flammable in high temperature environments. When power steering fluid leaks into the engine compartment or the bottom of the vehicle, especially near hot parts such as the exhaust pipe, engine, spark plugs, etc., there is indeed a potential risk of causing a fire.