Power Steering: Electric Vs Hydraulic

Power steering systems reduce the effort needed to turn your wheel and make maneuvering easier. The two main types are hydraulic and electric.

Steering Feel

There are a few different ways to help drivers control their vehicles. One of them is through a power steering system. Hydraulic power steering has been around for a long time and many drivers prefer it. They say it provides a better feel for the road and can help to improve overall safety. Electric power steering (EPS) is an alternative to hydraulic systems and has been in use for a few decades now. It has many benefits including less weight, less power consumption and quieter operation.

Efficiency

Unlike hydraulic systems, electric power steering only requires energy when the driver is turning the wheel. This helps to boost fuel efficiency and emissions. Aside from the obvious fuel savings, this system also eliminates the need for a large hydraulic pump and fluid lines that leak. It’s also much lighter and compact. However, while this system may be more efficient than a hydraulic one, it does not come without its drawbacks. Its high parasitic power consumption (the hydraulic pump is always running) can result in reduced assist when the engine is spinning slower, and it needs regular fluid changes to keep things functioning correctly. Moreover, because it relies on a complex mechanical system, hydraulic power steering is heavier than an electric setup. This extra weight can zap energy from the engine, which can lead to poor fuel economy and higher emissions.

Reliability

The majority of cars on the road today have power steering. This is because steering a car without power would be extremely difficult, and the system is required to avoid accidents. Electric power steering systems (EPAS) are replacing hydraulic systems on a lot of vehicles these days, and for good reason. They’re more reliable, less complex, and lighter in weight. The EPS system is able to provide power to the steering without using any other sources of energy, which boosts fuel economy and decreases emissions. It also enables a more linear steering feel.

Cost

While electric power steering uses fewer components than hydraulic, it also requires more energy to operate. This creates a heavier vehicle that will affect fuel economy and may require additional maintenance. Hydraulic power steering also requires a special fluid that can leak at certain points in the vehicle’s lifespan, causing the system to stop working completely. This fluid must be changed out periodically, usually every five years or 50,000 miles, so it’s important to keep track of the level. In addition, the hoses and pump that run the system need to be maintained, reducing overall longevity. If a driver replaces a pump, they should also check the hoses to make sure there are no problems.