If you anticipate that your power steering is too loose or too raucous when you handle it, then chances of a problem with your steering belt are high. Before you head to the mechanic to get the problem fixed, it pays to have sufficient knowledge on the topic to help you decide whether repair or replacement is the better alternative.
Open Up Your Front Bonnet And Locate The Power Steering Belt
Your power steering belt is usually located ahead of the engine under the bonnet of the car, so lift up the cover to find it. This belt navigates a number of different pulleys related to the pump to enable smooth power steering while you drive. It usually sits on the power steering pump, so it shouldn't be too difficult for you to find.
Check The Power Steering Belt To Assess The Damage
Once you locate the power steering belt, assess it for any damage. If the power steering belt is broken, then you have no choice but to replace it, because no amount of repair work can help here. In some cases, the belt may have slipped from the pulley because of rough driving conditions. Here you will simply need to put the belt back in place to restore smooth power steering. Slipping belts often cause jarring noises, so don't drive any further because you risk breaking them completely –– resulting in complete replacement when repair could have been a viable option for you. If the belt slips because of lack of friction or too much friction, you can get the belt tension adjusted instead of replacing it completely. In some instances, simply oiling the metal components will prevent the belt from slipping –– saving you any replacement worries.
Establish Your Repair Or Replacement Costs
It goes without saying that repairs are cheaper than replacing the entire belt, but you must know what you should pay. According to resource finder website Mechanic Buddy, you can expect to pay $150 inclusive of GST for any repair work. If you're looking for full car service, you will pay between $150 and $220. The repair job will probably set you back this much. But if you need replacement, then you will need to pay for the part and labour. You can probably negotiate a fixed fee with your mechanic. If you want to save on the cost of the power steering belt, consider looking for it yourself at dealer shops or even online.
Follow these DIY strides to establish whether your power steering belt needs repair or replacement before taking it to a mechanic.
