If your steering wheel is getting hard to turn, whining when you park, pulling to one side, or your power steering light just came on, bring it to Auto Lab. We work on hydraulic and electric power steering and rack and pinion systems, plus the parts that connect them to your wheels, like tie rods and ball joints. A basic visual check of your steering and suspension for damage and leaks is free.
Your steering system ensures you can navigate safely and respond to road conditions. Key benefits include:
- Enhanced Safety: Accurate steering helps avoid accidents and ensures precise control.
- Improved Performance: A well-maintained system provides smoother handling and driving comfort.
- Longer Tire Lifespan: Proper alignment reduces tire wear and improves fuel efficiency.
Learn more about our vehicle maintenance services here.
Common Steering System Issues
Difficulty Turning the Wheel
This is often caused by low power steering fluid or a failing power steering pump.
Vibrations in the Steering Wheel
Excessive vibrations may indicate alignment issues or worn-out suspension components.
Steering Pulls to One Side
A misaligned steering system can cause your vehicle to drift, even on straight roads.
Unusual Noises When Turning
Grinding or squealing sounds often point to issues with the power steering pump or fluid.
Power Steering Warning Light
A steering wheel with an exclamation point means the system found low fluid or a fault. On hydraulic systems, check the fluid. On electric systems, restart the car, and if the light stays on or steering gets heavy, don't drive it. Our power steering warning light guide walks through it step by step.
Fluid Under the Front of the Car
Clear or amber fluid can mean a leak from the pump, a hose, or the rack. See fluid leak repair.
If you’re experiencing any of these issues, contact us today for a professional inspection.
Types of Steering Systems We Service
At AutoLab Libertyville, we work on a variety of steering systems, including:
- Hydraulic Power Steering: Maintains smooth and controlled steering through fluid pressure.
- Electric Power Steering (EPS): Uses electronic sensors and motors for improved efficiency and performance.
- Rack and Pinion Systems: A common setup for most vehicles, ensuring precise handling.
Book your service appointment today to ensure your steering system is functioning perfectly.
Steering parts we repair and replace
- Power steering pumps and hoses
- Rack and pinion units
- Tie rods and ball joints
- Control arms
- Power steering belts (see belts and hoses)
- Electric power steering faults
- Wheel alignment after steering work (see struts, shocks, and alignment)
Libertyville roads are hard on steering parts
Potholes and our freeze-thaw winters wear out steering and suspension parts faster than most people expect. Hitting a pothole hard can knock your alignment out or damage a tie rod, and you'll often notice it as a pull, a shaky wheel, or uneven tire wear. If you've hit something hard, get it checked before small wear turns into a bigger repair.
What steering repair costs
Price depends on what failed, so we start with an inspection and give you a written estimate before any work. For reference, RepairPal's national averages are $841 to $940 for a power steering pump replacement and $2,307 to $2,572 for a rack and pinion replacement, before tax and fees. Many steering problems turn out to be smaller fixes, like a leaking hose or a loose belt.
For bigger repairs, we offer 0% financing for 6 months on repairs over $199.
Why Choose AutoLab Libertyville for Steering Repairs?
Drivers in Libertyville trust AutoLab for professional steering system services. Here’s why:
- Certified Technicians: Our ASE-certified experts are trained to handle all steering system repairs.
- Advanced Diagnostics: We use cutting-edge equipment to pinpoint and resolve issues.
- High-Quality Parts: Durable replacements ensure long-lasting results.
- Transparent Pricing: Clear estimates with no hidden fees.
- 3-Year/36,000-Mile Warranty on repairs. Details.
- Free Loaners and Shuttle: free loaner cars (first come, first served) and a free shuttle within 10 miles.
Contact us today to schedule your steering system repair.
Steering repair FAQs
Is it safe to drive with hard steering?
You can still steer without power assist, but it takes a lot more effort and it's hard to react quickly. If the wheel is heavy, jerky, or noisy, have it checked before you drive much more. If you've lost assist on an electric system, have it towed.
Do you charge to look at my steering?
A basic visual inspection of steering and suspension for damage and leaks is free. Electrical faults on electric power steering need diagnostic testing, and we'll tell you the cost up front.
Do I need an alignment after steering work?
Replacing steering parts like tie rods can change your alignment, so ask us about an alignment check.
Can you work on my electric power steering?
Yes. We service hydraulic, electric, and rack and pinion systems.
Related Services
For comprehensive care, explore our related services:
- Brake Repair Services: Ensure your brakes and steering work in harmony for maximum safety.
- Tires and Wheels: Proper tire maintenance enhances steering performance and fuel efficiency.
- Fluid Leak Repairs: Address power steering fluid leaks to prevent system failure.
- Struts, shocks, and wheel alignment
- Belts and hoses
Steering repair near you
Auto Lab Libertyville, 400 S. Milwaukee Ave., Libertyville, IL 60048. Monday to Friday, 7am to 6pm.
Serving Libertyville, Mundelein, Vernon Hills, and nearby towns. Book online or request a free estimate.
