What Is Power Steering (Hydraulic vs Electric)?
Power steering makes your car easy to turn — and modern systems work differently. A Cranbourne West specialist explains.
What it is & what it does
Power steering reduces the effort needed to turn the wheel. Older cars use a hydraulic system (a belt-driven pump and fluid); most modern cars use electric power steering (EPS) — an electric motor assists the steering, with no pump or fluid.
EPS is more efficient (it only draws power when you steer) and enables features like lane-keep assist and self-parking.
Signs of trouble & how we help
Hydraulic systems can leak or lose the pump (heavy steering, a whine, low fluid). EPS faults show as heavy steering with a warning light and need diagnostics — there’s no fluid to top up. Either way, heavy steering is a safety issue.
We diagnose which system you have and the exact fault, then quote the correct repair.
Questions about your car? Just ask.
Understanding what’s under the bonnet makes servicing decisions easier — and we’re always happy to explain what your car needs and why, in plain English.
Book a service or a check with a Cranbourne West specialist online in 60 seconds, or call 03 8782 0711.
What Is Power Steering (Hydraulic vs Electric)? — FAQ
Hydraulic uses a belt-driven pump and fluid; electric (EPS) uses a motor with no pump or fluid, and is more efficient.
Only if it’s hydraulic — EPS cars have no fluid. We’ll tell you which yours is.
A hydraulic fault (leak/pump) or an EPS fault — both need diagnosing. See our heavy-steering guide.
Yes — it makes the car harder to control, especially parking. Get it checked.
Related guides & services
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