Most cars these days are fitted with power steering, which essentially means that a pump assists with the steering to make it easier to turn the wheels, even when the car is stationary.  The steering rack is connected to the front wheels and it’s the rack that allows the car to turn corners. This sound simple in practice, however it is a bit more complex and the power steering system needs to be checked regularly to ensure it is working properly.

The largest cause of failure in this system is a worn power steering pump which will not only operate ineffectively, but they can also contaminate the steering hydraulics with metal particles. These are the most likely cause of damage to components in the system such as damaged fluid seals, sticky valves and scored shafts and power bores.

Leaking hydraulic pipes that drive the steering pump can also be an issue and need checking and from time to time, or replacing, as part of your regular service. You can learn more about your power steering system by viewing our new AutoFacts video here.

If you have any concerns with your power steering call your local Repco Authorised Service centre today.

Great news for motorists in Milperra, TAG Automotive has joined our ever growing network trusted mechanical workshops. As part of the largest independent network of mechanical workshops Australia wide, TAG Automotive can now offer their customers expert car servicing and a Nationwide warranty.

Owner Tony Tannous and the team at TAG Automotive pride themselves on their exceptional levels of customer service and technical expertise.

Tony explains why they chose to join Repco Authorised Service. “As small business owners we were looking to take our business to the next level. Repco Authorised Service provides us with access to the latest technical data, training and business systems that will help us achieve those goals. We wanted to be able to offer our customers the very best when it comes to car servicing and repairs. Our customers can now experience the peace of mind that comes with expertly trained technicians, the latest diagnostic tools and a Nationwide warranty.”

TAG Automotive are also celebrating their move to a new, larger workshop in Beaconsfield Street, Milperra. This move will allow them to provide a greater range of services and a more comfortable environment for their customers. You can find out more at their brand new website.

What’s the diff? Well, it’s short for ‘differential’ which has the job of balancing the speed of your car’s drive wheels. When a car is turning a corner the inside wheels have slightly less distance to travel than the outside wheels. The ‘differential’ as its name suggests, compensates for the difference.  You can learn all about how the Diff works by viewing our latest AutoFacts video.

Now if you drive a front wheel drive vehicle then this function is handled by the trans axel, however its role is the same. For the more traditional rear wheel drive, the differential is located on the rear axle.

On 4WD drives and all wheel drive vehicles you’ll have a differential on both front and rear axles and a transfer case that handles the difference of power as required from front to rear.

As differentials have to cope with enormous amounts of torque and strain, they are manufactured as heavy duty components relying on oil to keep them cool and lubricated.

Like all oils they do wear out and need replacing from time to time… along with a number of seals which are located at the junction of the universal joint and at the end of each axel.

The good news is, when you have your car serviced at your Repco Authorised Service centre, your oil level and seals are inspected as part of their 65 point safety check.