Steering failure in a vehicle can be a serious safety concern, as it directly affects your ability to control the car. There are several potential causes of steering failure, and each requires a specific diagnosis and solution. Here's an overview of common causes and how to fix them:

### 1. **Low or Contaminated Power Steering Fluid**

   - **Cause**: Power steering systems rely on hydraulic fluid to assist with steering. Low fluid levels or contamination (such as air or dirt) can cause the steering to become difficult or unresponsive.

   - **Fix**: Check the power steering fluid level and top it up with the correct type of fluid. If the fluid is contaminated, it may need to be flushed and replaced. Ensure that the system is free from leaks, as low fluid is often the result of a leak.

### 2. **Worn Steering Pump**

   - **Cause**: The power steering pump is responsible for pressurizing the fluid and assisting the steering. A failing pump may cause whining noises, hard steering, or complete loss of power assist.

   - **Fix**: If the pump is damaged or worn out, it should be replaced. A professional mechanic should perform this repair, as it involves the hydraulic system.

### 3. **Broken or Loose Steering Belt**

   - **Cause**: The steering system relies on a belt (often called the serpentine belt) to drive the power steering pump. If the belt breaks or slips, the pump will not function properly, leading to loss of power steering.

   - **Fix**: Inspect the belt for wear, cracks, or damage. If it's broken, it must be replaced. Tension on the belt should also be checked to ensure it’s tight enough to drive the pump.

### 4. **Worn or Damaged Steering Linkage (Tie Rods, Pitman Arm, etc.)**

   - **Cause**: Steering components like tie rods, the pitman arm, and idler arms can wear out over time, causing the steering to feel loose or unresponsive, or even result in steering failure.

   - **Fix**: Inspect the steering linkage for play or wear. Worn parts should be replaced. In most cases, a mechanic will need to diagnose the exact component that's failing.

### 5. **Damaged Steering Rack or Gearbox**

   - **Cause**: The steering rack (in rack-and-pinion systems) or steering gearbox (in older vehicles with recirculating ball systems) can fail due to wear, leaks, or damage. This could result in difficulty steering, a loss of responsiveness, or complete failure of the steering system.

   - **Fix**: If there’s a significant issue with the steering rack or gearbox (such as a leak or internal failure), it may need to be rebuilt or replaced. This is a complex repair that typically requires professional assistance.

### 6. **Air in Power Steering System**

   - **Cause**: Air can enter the power steering system due to a leak in the hoses, loose connections, or after replacing power steering fluid. Air in the system can cause the steering to feel spongy or make whining noises.

   - **Fix**: To purge the air, you may need to bleed the steering system. This involves turning the steering wheel from lock to lock while the engine is running to expel any air trapped in the system.

### 7. **Faulty Steering Column or U-joint**

   - **Cause**: The steering column connects the steering wheel to the steering mechanism. If there’s an issue with the column or the universal joint (U-joint), it can cause binding or loss of steering control.

   - **Fix**: Inspect the steering column for any damage or binding. If the U-joint is damaged, it should be replaced. This might require disassembling the steering column, which is a job best left to a professional.

### 8. **Tire Issues**

   - **Cause**: Uneven tire wear, under-inflated tires, or damaged tires can cause steering problems, such as pulling to one side, poor handling, or vibrations while driving.

   - **Fix**: Check tire pressure regularly and ensure all tires are inflated to the manufacturer's recommended pressure. Replace tires if they are excessively worn, damaged, or unevenly worn.

### 9. **Suspension Problems**

   - **Cause**: Worn suspension components such as ball joints, control arms, or shock absorbers can affect the alignment and handling of the vehicle, leading to issues with steering control.

   - **Fix**: Have the suspension inspected for worn parts. Any faulty components, such as bushings, ball joints, or control arms, should be replaced.

### 10. **Alignment Issues**

   - **Cause**: Poor wheel alignment can cause the vehicle to pull to one side or cause uneven steering effort.

   - **Fix**: Have the vehicle’s alignment checked by a mechanic. If necessary, the alignment should be adjusted to ensure the steering wheel is centered and the tires are angled correctly.

### 11. **Steering Rack Bushings or Mounts**

   - **Cause**: Worn or damaged bushings or mounts that hold the steering rack in place can cause abnormal steering behavior, such as excessive play or clunking noises when turning.

   - **Fix**: Inspect and replace any worn or damaged bushings or mounts. This typically involves disassembling part of the steering system to access the components.

### 12. **Electrical Steering Assist Failure (for Electric Power Steering)**

   - **Cause**: In vehicles with electric power steering, the failure of the electric motor, sensors, or electronic control units (ECUs) can cause a loss of power assist, making the steering very heavy or unresponsive.

   - **Fix**: Diagnosing and repairing electric power steering issues requires specialized tools and knowledge. A mechanic will need to diagnose the specific electronic fault and may need to replace the motor or control unit.

### Summary of How to Fix Steering Issues:

- **Routine maintenance**: Regularly check and top up fluid levels, inspect the steering belt and alignment, and replace worn tires.

- **Professional help**: Steering rack, pump, or gearbox issues usually require professional attention.

- **Avoiding damage**: Driving cautiously, particularly over rough terrain, can prevent premature wear on steering components.

If you're experiencing difficulty with steering or suspect a failure, it's important to address the issue promptly. Some steering failures can worsen quickly or result in a total loss of steering control, which can be dangerous. Always consult a certified mechanic for a thorough inspection and repair.