Mercedes Steering Malfunctions: Troubleshooting Power Steering Failures

Mercedes-Benz is popular throughout the world due to its highly luxurious cars and the advanced systems they come equipped with making them stay miles ahead of their competitors. However, the joy of driving a Mercedes can be short-lived if you start encountering power steering malfunctions while driving.

There are certain ways to troubleshoot the steering malfunctions that you are experiencing in your Mercedes. Here in this article, we will discuss crucial troubleshooting mechanisms that will help you deal with power steering failures in Mercedes.

Inspect the Power Steering Fluid Levels

The power steering system in your Mercedes like all other mechanical systems requires the presence of adequate levels of power steering fluid for its efficient functioning. Most of the time it is seen that the presence of low power steering fluid leads to stiff & unresponsive power steering in cars.

In fact, your power steering wheels perform efficiently when proper hydraulic pressure is maintained in the system and that is only possible with the presence of adequate levels of power steering fluid. You must have a look at the power steering fluid reservoir to make sure the fluid is at a decent level.

However, if you find that the fluid is below its minimum mark then you must refill the steering fluid as per the owner’s manual of your Mercedes. Moreover, if you come across a dark power steering fluid or get a burnt smell then a fluid flush is important to get rid of the contaminants present in the system.

Check the Steering Rack

The steering rack is one of the most important components of your power steering system that helps in transferring the driver’s wheel inputs into motion for the wheels. Over the years as your Mercedes picks up miles, the steering rack can encounter a lot of wear & tear and this gives rise to a host of problems with the steering system of your vehicle.

You must have a thorough look at the steering rack of your high-end car to detect any signs of leakage that point toward worn-out seals or internal problems in the steering rack. Besides that, if you get to hear a clunking or knocking noise coming from the steering wheel when turning then it points towards loose or damaged components.

Moreover, if you come across an accumulation of dirt & debris around the rack or it seems to be loose then cleaning & tightening the connections are going to help in getting rid of minor problems. Now, driving continuously with a malfunctioning steering rack can cause additional damage to your power steering.

That is why you must get in touch with a certified technician who can help you diagnose the issues with your steering rack and then initiate remedial measures that can help in fixing the failing power steering rack.

Fix the Steering Angle Sensor

Among the various sensors used in your high-end car, the steering angle sensor plays a critical role in controlling the advanced steering features and also helps in making the system stable. Whenever there is an issue with the functioning of the steering angle sensor, you might come across illuminated dashboard warning lights or improper steering response.

Furthermore, a failing steering angle sensor can adversely affect the safety features in your vehicle like the lane-keeping assist system. You will need a diagnostic tool to troubleshoot the problems with the steering angle sensor as recalibration can only solve minor issues with the sensor.

However, if you are having problems in recalibrating your sensor & don’t have any advanced tools then you can contact a professional mechanic to assist you in inspecting and fixing the steering angle sensor of your Mercedes.

Examine the Power Steering Pump

Often issues with the power steering pump can create problems in the functioning of your steering wheel. The power steering pump helps in creating the hydraulic pressure that is necessary for the smooth functioning of the power steering wheel.

However, if you get to hear whining, groaning, or squealing noises when taking a turn or while idling then it indicates a failing power steering pump that needs to be fixed as soon as possible.

Finally

The above-discussed factors are some of the ways to troubleshoot the problems affecting the functioning of the power steering system. You shouldn’t ignore the initial signs of power steering system troubles but make an appointment with a certified auto repair shop and get your steering system diagnosed & fixed accordingly.