January 17, 2020
Power steering is standard on nearly every vehicle in Batavia, Illinois, these days. Now there are some exotic, new types of power steering systems, but for the most part, the general setup is a pump that's driven by a belt powered by the engine.
Contact the automotive professionals at Tuffy Tire & Auto Service Batavia in Batavia for questions about your power steering.
The pump generates power that assists drivers as they steer their vehicle around Batavia, Illinois. Power steering systems use hoses to move pressurized fluid back and forth. These hoses can develop leaks so it's a good idea to have Tuffy Tire & Auto Service Batavia inspect them at every oil change.
 
 A check of the power steering fluid level is on the list for every full service oil change at Tuffy Tire & Auto Service Batavia because low fluid can damage the power steering pump. And the fluid needs to be compatible with the hoses and seals, so it's important to use the correct type – just ask your service advisor at Tuffy Tire & Auto Service Batavia.
In addition to providing a boost, the fluid cleans, cools and lubricates the power steering system. Over time, the lubricants and detergents diminish so Batavia drivers need to replace their old fluid with clean, fresh fluid periodically.
 
 Excess moisture can collect in the power steering fluid as well. That can lead to rust and corrosion as well as reduce the effectiveness of the fluid. Many outline power steering service intervals in the owner's manual. Unfortunately, this service is sometimes left off the maintenance schedule. For Batavia drivers who are not sure, every two years is a good rule of thumb. 
At Tuffy Tire & Auto Service Batavia, we use a detergent to clean the system, flush out the old fluid and replace it with new fluid.
 
 Now, if you are experiencing high steering effort, erratic power assist or loud whining coming from the pump, you may have a power steering problem. Another sign is having to frequently top off the fluid.
 
 Holding the steering wheel to the far right or left for more than a few seconds at a time can wear your pump out quickly. We want you to be sure to service your power steering system regularly at your service center, or Tuffy Tire & Auto Service Batavia in Batavia, to keep you headed in the right direction.
Tuffy Tire & Auto Service Batavia
 301 S. Randall Rd
 Batavia, Illinois 60510
 630-879-9941
 

October 27, 2025
Name someone you know who enjoys spending a lot of money on gasoline. Yeah, me neither. Thats because it costs quite a bit to keep fueling your vehicle. One way to save money on gas is to get good fuel economy, and most of todays vehicles are designed to maximize your mileage. But you might f... More

October 23, 2025
If youve ever driven a bicycle with hand brakes, youll probably understand how the brake pads on your vehicle work. Bicycle brakes use a system that squeezes the bike wheels rim with a pair of cushioned pads activated by your hand squeezing the hand brakes on your handlebars. The friction of tho... More

October 12, 2025
Your vehicles engine is an engineering work of wonder with many complex parts working in harmony to get you down the road. One of those simple but important components is called a serpentine belt. It is driven by a pulley on the engine and transfers that power to many of your engines most importa... More