Steering Repair in Meridian and Caldwell, ID
How does steering work?
Have you ever been driving around Meridian and Caldwell, ID, and wondered how your steering works? Your car's power steering uses a hydraulic system to amplify the small effort you put into turning your steering wheel to enough power to turn your vehicle's wheels. The steering wheel is attached to a steering shaft, which goes down towards the front axle. At the other end of the steering shaft is a circular gear, which is called the “pinion.” The pinion interlocks with the rack, which is a straight gear that connects to the steering arms of your car’s wheels through tie rods. When you turn your steering wheel, the pinion rotates, which causes the rack to move either left or right, and your wheels move accordingly. We at Heritage Auto Repair know exactly how your vehicle's steering system works and can make the appropriate repairs if needed. We've been fixing cars since 1999 and serve residents of Meridian and Caldwell, Boise, Eagle, Kuna, Nampa, and beyond.
Another key component of a power steering system is the power steering pump, which is responsible for pressurizing the power steering fluid before delivering it to the cylinder in the rack and pinion unit. If your power steering pump needs repair, Heritage Auto Repair is your 1st choice. The power steering fluid is stored in depressurized form within the power steering reservoir, and only when needed does the power steering pump pressurize the fluid and deliver it to assist in steering. Give Heritage Auto Repair a call if you have any questions regarding the steering system on your Toyota, Honda, or other vehicle.
When I am driving down the street in Meridian and Caldwell, how do I know my vehicle needs steering repair?
The following are symptoms of steering problems:
- The steering wheel is very stiff.
This issue could mean your vehicle's fluid levels are low, in which case you would need to come into Heritage Auto Repair for a power steering fluid exchange service. If this is not the case, then there is a problem with your steering system.
- The steering wheel is loose.
When driving around ID has your wheel felt loose? This is usually caused by worn steering racks and tie rods. A loose steering wheel could also indicate a problem with wheel alignment. If this is happening, bring your car or truck to Heritage Auto Repair quickly
- You hear whining or grinding noises.
If you hear noises when you turn your steering wheel, there is probably a loose or torn steering belt. This is a more serious issue and if this occurs, you should bring your vehicle to Heritage Auto Repair in Meridian and Caldwell as soon as possible.
- Your vehicle wanders or pulls to one side.
This often indicates a problem with a worn steering gear. Premature steering gear wear can be caused by lack of lubrication from power steering fluid, so you should also check for any power steering leaks when replacing a worn steering gear. We at Heritage Auto Repair can also check for leaks when you bring your vehicle in.
- The steering wheel slips when you attempt to turn it.
A build-up of contaminants in the steering system can cause the steering wheel to vibrate or ‘pulsate’ when the wheel is turned fully in one direction or another. A power steering flush will normally fix this problem.
If you are experiencing one or more of these issues with your vehicle, you can bring it to Heritage Auto Repair in Meridian and Caldwell today. In addition to steering repair, we also specialize in oil changes, fluid services and tune-ups and transmission repair.
Your award-winning local Shop for Steering Repair
If you are in Ada County, the 83642-2440 area or nearby, you can bring your car to Heritage Auto Repair for various auto repair services, such as transmission repair, oil changes, fluid services and tune-ups, and steering repair. Our technicians and owner Tony Zanders are expertly trained and ASE certified in all things auto repair, including oil changes, fluid services and tune-ups and transmission repair, and are continuously trained on the latest automotive technology. We can fix your Toyota, Honda, Ford, Hyundai, and any other car you may have.
Here are some reasons why you should choose us:
- Family owned and operated since we opened
- Voted “Best in the Treasure Valley” and “Best in Idaho” for automotive repair in 2020
- We have a review score of 5 based on reviews from 800 satisfied customers.
- Currently a nationally recognized “Gold Certified” Napa Autocare Center
- Shuttle service to get you where you need to be
Don't hesitate to bring your car to Heritage Auto Repair in Meridian and Caldwell today! You can schedule an appointment with us online or give us a call at 208-887-1442.
Heritage Auto Repair - "Best in the Treasure Valley".
