The Complete Guide to Steering System Care for Maximum Safety, Stability, and Performance
Your Fleet’s Steering System Is Critical to Driver Safety—Are You Maintaining It?
Steering issues aren’t just a nuisance—they’re a major safety hazard. A poorly maintained steering system can cause:
- Loss of control, increasing accident risks
- Uneven tire wear, leading to premature replacements
- Increased driver fatigue from excessive vibrations and difficult handling
At BFS Fleet Service, we help fleets stay ahead of steering failures, reduce tire wear, and improve driver safety with expert inspections and repairs.
Related: Schedule a Fleet Steering System Inspection
1. Why Steering System Maintenance Is Crucial for Fleet Safety
- A failing steering system increases stopping distances and reduces maneuverability.
- Loose steering components cause alignment problems, leading to uneven tire wear.
- Worn-out power steering pumps make turning more difficult, increasing driver fatigue.
One fleet was experiencing repeated alignment issues and driver complaints—after a full steering system overhaul, driver satisfaction improved, and tire replacement costs dropped by 25%.
Related: How BFS Fleet Service Improves Steering Performance
2. Common Steering System Problems in Fleet Vehicles
- Loose or Worn Steering Linkages – Causes wandering or excessive play in the wheel.
- Power Steering Fluid Leaks – Leads to stiff or jerky steering response.
- Worn Steering Gears or Racks – Results in delayed steering response and drifting.
- Tie Rod End Wear – Affects wheel alignment, causing uneven tire wear.
- Steering Pump Failure – Makes it harder to turn and increases strain on the system.
A fleet ignored minor steering complaints until a driver lost control during a sharp turn, leading to an accident and thousands in damages. Regular inspections could have prevented the failure.
Related: Fleet Steering System Repair & Maintenance
3. How to Keep Your Fleet’s Steering System in Top Condition
- Check Steering Fluid Levels – Low or dirty fluid causes pump wear and steering stiffness.
- Inspect Steering Components Regularly – Check tie rods, pitman arms, and ball joints for wear.
- Perform Routine Wheel Alignments – Keeps steering straight and reduces uneven tire wear.
- Address Loose Steering Immediately – Excess play in the steering wheel indicates a major safety issue.
- Monitor for Unusual Noises – Whining or clunking noises signal steering pump or linkage failure.
One fleet cut steering-related repairs by 40% after implementing a structured steering maintenance plan.
Related: Book a Fleet Steering System Inspection
4. Signs Your Fleet’s Steering System Needs Immediate Attention
- Excessive play or looseness in the steering wheel – Indicates worn components or misalignment.
- Hard to turn or slow steering response – Could be a failing power steering pump.
- Vibrations or shaking while driving – Often linked to worn tie rods or steering linkage issues.
- Whining or groaning noises when turning – Typically caused by low or contaminated power steering fluid.
- Truck drifting or pulling to one side – May indicate steering misalignment or suspension issues.
A trucking company ignored a driver’s complaint about stiff steering—until a power steering pump failed mid-route, leading to an emergency repair and lost delivery revenue.
Related: Schedule a Fleet Steering & Alignment Check
5. How Steering System Issues Affect Fuel Efficiency
Many fleets don’t realize that poor steering maintenance impacts fuel economy.
- Misaligned steering causes rolling resistance, reducing MPG.
- Worn-out components force the engine to work harder.
- Unbalanced steering leads to excess tire drag, increasing fuel consumption.
A logistics fleet saw a 5% increase in fuel efficiency after implementing routine steering and alignment maintenance.
How We Help:
- Steering system adjustments to improve MPG and stability.
- Tie rod and linkage replacements for smoother operation.
- Wheel alignments to maximize fuel efficiency.
Related: Improve Fleet Fuel Economy with Steering Maintenance
6. Why BFS Fleet Service Is the Best Choice for Steering System Repairs
At BFS Fleet Service, we provide comprehensive steering system diagnostics and repairs to ensure your fleet is safe, efficient, and DOT-compliant.
- Power Steering Fluid & Pump Maintenance – Keeping your trucks responsive and easy to drive.
- Tie Rod & Ball Joint Replacements – Preventing steering drift and excessive tire wear.
- Alignment & Suspension Checks – Ensuring smooth handling and better fuel economy.
- Steering System Overhauls – For older trucks or those with major wear.
- Emergency Steering Repairs – Getting trucks back on the road quickly.
Next Steps:
- Schedule a Steering System Inspection before costly failures happen.
- Explore Our Full Fleet Maintenance Services.
