Alternative Automotive

Stay Headed in the Right Direction, Escondido

Posted February 21, 2021 12:23 PM

Power steering is standard on nearly every vehicle in Escondido, CA, 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 Alternative Automotive in Escondido for questions about your power steering.

The pump generates power that assists drivers as they steer their vehicle around Escondido, CA. 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 Alternative Automotive 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 Alternative Automotive 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 Alternative Automotive.

In addition to providing a boost, the fluid cleans, cools and lubricates the power steering system. Over time, the lubricants and detergents diminish so Escondido 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 Escondido drivers who are not sure, every two years is a good rule of thumb.

At Alternative Automotive, 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 Alternative Automotive in Escondido, to keep you headed in the right direction.

Alternative Automotive
137 S Vinewood St
Escondido, CA 92029
(760) 480-0851
http://www.alternativeautoescondido.net

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What Our Customers Are Saying

Cool place clean and good service

Kam Ja, 01/22/2021

Had to mention how great my experience was coming here. For the past few months, I had problems with my right turn blinker and I already changed out the bulb and the assembly twice. I called multiple locations and even though I had an idea of what was going on, they wanted to charge me $100 or more for JUST the inspection only and any additional charges for anything that they deem 'necessary' to do to my car. For that reason, I was discouraged and refused to look for any further help. A few months later, I simply googled nearby car electricians and found this place. I called and I spoke to Omar (I'm positive it was Omar) and he was professional and very understanding of my situation! After taking in all my info, he tells me the inspection was going to be $30 along with any additional charges to fix the problem. I was so surprised and ecstatic to hear so! I made an appointment for early Friday morning and left my car so they can inspect it. The problem was very minor compared to what others have said it could be, and overall charge was $50 with tax included. I was overjoyed to have my blinker fixed at a reasonable and realistic pricing! Not to mention Omar was very helpful throughout the whole time. Even though hand signals were able to assist for so long, I couldn't risk any of my lights being non-functional any longer. Thank you to everyone here, it's nice to have a shop you can trust in. Highly recommend this shop to anyone in need of car troubles and/or people who feel intimidated by other auto repair shops with such ridiculous prices. Give them a call! It'll be worth your time!

Jesse Bribiesca, 01/16/2021

Very professional ,work with you and they're working on my two Cadillacs with no negativity

Jose Hernandez, 12/06/2020

Knowledgeable and honest staff, valuable attributes and stuff that will keep me going to these guys for all my repair needs.

Jesse Lara, 11/18/2020

I had my car serviced here years ago. Stop for a few years as my job was out of area. Unfortunately I let a lot of things go on my service or used those "quick" oil change businesses. I refused to have real work on my car hoping to be able to schedule an appointment with Alternative Auto. I chose to neglect a few services rather than have it done incorrectly.

Gigi Goines-Lewis, 11/15/2020

Alternative has maintained our 1998 Lexus SC300 coupe for the last 9 years. Good service at reasonable prices. Communication with Omar is superb!

John Downing, 09/16/2020