A serpentine or drive belt connecting the power steering pump pulley drives a hydraulic power steering pump. When the pulley is driven by this belt and begins to rotate, it drives an input shaft inside the pump, creating pressure inside the pump housing. This pressure is applied to the hydraulic fluid inside the lines connecting the pump to the steering box.
Your car may have one or two drive belts, depending on the year, make, and model. A belt will drive the power steering pump through a pulley in both cases. While the engine is running, the belt wraps around the pulley and rotates it. The pulley remains stationary when the motor is turned off, and the pump does not operate.
When the power steering pump pulley is worn out or has broken, it can display a few common warning signs that service is needed. You often notice a whining noise coming from the pump pulley.
The operation of the power steering pump pulley and belt should be examined during routine maintenance. The most typical power steering pump pulley issue is bearing failure. If the bearings seize, the belt may break. A damaged belt might be the cause of a faulty power steering system.
How do you know it’s Time for Power Steering Pump Pulley Replacement?
- While the engine is operating, there is a whining or grinding sound.
- The power steering pump pulley won’t turn
- The serpentine belt or power steering is broken with possibly a sign of failure in bearing
Without a working power steering pump pulley, your complete power steering system will be unworkable. Wear and tear on the pulley bearing is the most prevalent cause of difficulties here. The pulley must be removed, the old bearing must be removed, and a new bearing must be placed. We recommend that any power steering system faults be diagnosed by one of our qualified mechanics.
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How is Power Steering Pump Pulley Replacement Done?
- The serpentine belt is removed once the hood is opened
- A pulley puller is used to remove the power steering pulley
- A pulley installer is used to install the power steering pulley replacement
- The serpentine belt is installed, and the alignment of the pulley is double-checked
- The engine is started, and the power steering system is tested
Final Words
If you notice the symptoms mentioned above and do not feel 100% confident in completing this replacement, please contact one of Swezo’s certified mechanics to complete the power steering pump pulley replacement for you.
