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Hydraulic vs Electric steering maintenance

Irrespective of the type, the e-motor might wear out at some point in time.

BHPian airguitar recently shared this with other enthusiasts.

While I understand the differences in setups, I would like to know more about how the maintenance done at the ASS differs for Hydraulic steering? What additional steps are performed?

Further, what are the failure points in a hydraulic steering system? Is it likely to fail more than electric steering?

Here's what BHPian Jeroen had to say on the matter:

Hydraulic steering requires maintenance in the form of changing out the power steering liquid and the filter now and then. It varies per car, but usually, it is once every 3-5 years.

On a fully electric system, obviously, there is no need for this. Electric Power Steering (EPS) is virtually maintenance-free. There is some system that still uses 2 phase DC motors with brushes. Ultimately they wear and need replacing.The EPS needs careful calibration when it comes to its steering angle and or torque sensor. Due to wear and tear of the various steering and suspension components it might require re-calibration.

Here's what BHPian commonman had to say on the matter:

Basically, hydraulic power steering systems can be serviced and repaired. Can electric power steering systems be repaired?

Replying to BHPian commonman's query, this is what BHPian Jeroen had to say on the matter:

Sure they can. It does depend on what went wrong. As I mentioned calibration of the sensors is by far the most common problem with them. (sometimes it is revered to as sensor alignment).

Irrespective of the type, the e-motor might wear out at some point in time. Also, the internal gearing might wear down over time.

There could also be problems with some of the circuitry boards. Or the actual sensors wearing out over time.

A lot of these EPS units come as “one unit”. So they might get replaced in one go as well. But on most, you can open them up, although that is more likely to be a DIY job or how your local mechanic would do it, rather than a mainstream dealer. They might just replace the whole unit. More cost-effective and then every part is new. It will differ from car to car/brand to brand.

BHPian Poitive recently shared a comparison between HPS & EPS via his two cars. Here is the link for the same.

Check out BHPian comments for more insights and information.

 
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