Subaru Steering Systems

Subaru is well-known for their innovative all-wheel drive systems, which have made the company a favorite of drivers in cold weather climates. But what about the rest of the car? Subaru has also developed some clever steering systems that provide responsive handling and an enjoyable driving experience, no matter where you're going. In this blog post, we'll take a closer look at Subaru's steering technology and how and why you can get your Subaru steering system serviced. If properly serviced, it'll last longer and keep you and your passengers safer. Schedule an appointment today!

When it comes to responsive handling, few manufacturers can match Subaru. The company's all-wheel drive systems are legendary, but their steering systems are also top-notch. Subaru has developed several different types of steering systems over the years, each designed to provide a different driving experience. Here's a look at some of the most popular types of steering systems:

1. Hydraulic Power Assisted Steering (HPAS): This system uses hydraulic pressure to assist the driver in turning the wheel. It's designed for vehicles that are frequently driven in city traffic or on winding roads. HPAS provides light and precise steering, making it easy to maneuver your vehicle into tight spots.
2. Electric Power Assisted Steering (EPAS): This system uses electric motors to assist the driver in turning the wheel. It's designed for vehicles that are driven on highways or in other open spaces where precise steering isn't as important. EPAS provides a more effortless steering experience, making it easy to keep your vehicle in its lane.
3. Variable Ratio Steering (VRS): This system automatically adjusts the amount of steering assistance based on the speed of the vehicle. It's designed for vehicles that are driven in a variety of conditions, from city traffic to open highways. VRS provides an optimal steering experience regardless of road conditions. Schedule an appointment today!
4. Active Torque Vectoring (ATV): This system applies braking force to the inside front wheel when cornering. This helps to reduce understeer and provide a more precise steering experience. ATV is especially beneficial for vehicles that are driven in performance-oriented conditions.
5. Variable Steering Ratio (VSR): This system automatically adjusts the steering ratio based on the speed of the vehicle. VSR is designed for vehicles that are driven in a variety of conditions, from city traffic to open highways. It provides an optimal steering experience regardless of road conditions.
6. Speed-Sensitive Steering (SSS): This system automatically adjusts the amount of steering assistance based on the speed of the vehicle. SSS is designed for vehicles that are driven in a variety of conditions, from city traffic to open highways. It provides an optimal steering experience regardless of road conditions.
7. Active Front Steering (AFS): This system automatically adjusts the steering angle of the front wheels based on the speed of the vehicle. AFS is designed for vehicles that are driven in a variety of conditions, from city traffic to open highways. It provides an optimal steering experience regardless of road conditions. Schedule an appointment today!
8. Rear-Wheel Steering (RWS): This system automatically adjusts the steering angle of the rear wheels based on the speed of the vehicle. RWS is designed for vehicles that are driven in a variety of conditions, from city traffic to open highways. It provides an optimal steering experience regardless of road conditions.
9. Four-Wheel Steering (4WS): This system automatically adjusts the steering angle of all four wheels based on the speed of the vehicle. 4WS is designed for vehicles that are driven in a variety of conditions, from city traffic to open highways. It provides an optimal steering experience regardless of road conditions.
10. Active Front Steering (AFS): This system automatically adjusts the steering angle of the front wheels based on the speed and position of the vehicle. AFS is designed for vehicles that are driven in a variety of conditions, from city traffic to open highways. It provides an optimal steering experience regardless of road conditions.
11. Rear-Wheel Steering (RWS): This system automatically adjusts the steering angle of the rear wheels based on the speed and position of the vehicle.

Now that you know that Subaru takes its steering systems seriously, here is why you should have your Subaru taken in to get its steering system looked at on occasion and how you can keep it running well.

First and foremost, it is important to have your Subaru regularly serviced by a professional. This way, any potential issues with your steering system can be caught early and repaired before they cause major problems. Schedule an appointment today!

In addition, be sure to pay attention to your own driving habits. If you notice that your vehicle is pulling to one side or the other, or that the steering wheel feels loose, these could be signs of a problem with your steering system. Be sure to have your vehicle checked out by a professional as soon as possible if you notice any of these symptoms.

Finally, always drive safely and within the posted speed limits. Excessive speeding can put undue stress on your steering system and lead to serious issues.

If you notice any issues with steering, a visit to the mechanic will be able to uncover any issues. Others wait till roughly 80,000 miles to have their steering systems looked at. A mechanic can check the following items:

• Inspecting your shocks for leaks, cracks or other obvious damage
• Bounce the car to see if both the shocks and struts are functioning correctly
• See if your Subaru swats, rolls, bounces or nose dives
• Spin tires to see any uneven tire wear, imbalances or see if they are wobble
• Inspect for leakage on the steering components

Really, if you own a Subaru and you listen to the noises it makes and how it drives, you should be able to notice any issues. If it feels different to drive, you should take your car to a mechanic. One way to make sure that the right parts are used and the mechanics are well-trained is to go to Granite Subaru, where we can make a visual inspection and do whatever it takes to fix your Subaru steering system. Schedule an appointment today!