Q&A for How to Handle Power Steering Failure

Check the seals on the cap. Sometimes the seals get worn out and have a leak.

Yes. Power steering is a hydraulic mechanism. When the fluid runs low, the ability for the steering to be assisted by hydraulics is compromised. Your car will turn, with effort, but it is damaging the system. Until you get it fixed, buy a bottle of transmission fluid (dextron/mercon); it will work in the power steering and is much cheaper than PS fluid. (DO NOT try to use power steering fluid in the trans line). Get it fixed; the cost will only go up as you do more damage.

Try replacing your power steering belt first. If that doesn't work, then it might just be a lose wire or shorted-out circuit.

It could be the pump itself if the fluid's not leaking at all.

Not really, but if it's not working right after having it serviced, that's probably the cause. They may have inadvertently hit the wires to the horn when servicing it. I would take it back and tell them it was working just prior and you use it every day to honk for the kids to come out and get in the car.

You might have to change the serpentine belt as well, I have noticed they go hand and hand.

It could be several things. Even if your serpentine belt is new, it may be loose. When a new belt is installed, it should be checked after about 50 miles -- have the belt tension checked with a gauge at your local repair shop. The power steering can function differently depending on the weather: on warm days it will generally work fine while on cooler days it may give you a problem. Anyway you should have your vehicle checked as soon as possible.

It is possible. See a mechanic for advice.

There shouldn't be any danger or possible damage to the engine as the power steering is there to assist the steering and reduce the effort needed - nothing else. So long as you are capable and strong enough to turn the steering wheel, choose the route to the garage with the fewest turns and if you cannot turn the wheel, ask someone stronger to drive for you.

When this issue occurs, you could be certain that there is a glitch in your power steering system. It could be the fluid, pump, or the serpentine belt. All of these things work together to reduce the resistance of the wheel at the time of turning. Go to your mechanic and have it checked.