Hi all,

I have a 2009 Chevy HHR and recently I've noticed that the steering wheel has become a little bit stiff (some days are better than others) but in no way close to being 'difficult'. I've done a few Google searches and everything seems to point to power steering, but I feel like it would be a lot worse (I can still turn fine, it's just mildly stiff getting the wheel back to sitting position after.) I've read a lot of people having issues with PS after getting jumped, but my last jump was in March of last year... And most people mentioned getting a warning readout which I have not. I tried replacing the 2A fuse in the interior for PS (haven't gotten the 60A engine block fuse to replace yet.) I don't think the motor died because obviously it's still working since it's not that bad.. yet.

Long story short, I think it's power steering but it might not be since turning the wheel feels like just a rusty bike wheel rather than the pressurized hatch of a nuclear submarine, so just curious as to whether or not anyone else has had this issue/fix or if I'm just crazy. Thanks!

 

I have no idea what 2A fuse you looked at, but it is not the PS. The PS fuse is #1 underhood 60A.

You could try pulling it to see if the steering gets worse. There are so many things to look at you would be better off taking it to a pro rather than over the internet.

If it is the EPS motor it is covered under an extended warranty.

My first thing would be check the tire pressure with a gauge. The proper pressure is on a label on the driver door frame.

Then get under the car for a visual inspection.

If you know someplace that has a code reader capable of reading Cxxxx code that might help. Those codes don't always set a CEL.

 

X2 have the EPS motor checked at your local dealership!

 

Oldblue - might he be encountering a problem with the steering shaft's universal joints starting to get rusty/worn out? Didn't you replace yours years ago due to that kind of issue (???).

 

I did, back in July 24, 2014, then had the EPS motor swapped out six months later.