Rental car review

[tw]

Originally Posted by Undertoad

You can change the steering setting while on the move. I don't understand why you should be able to do that,

It sounds like speed sensitive steering. Once going over 8 MPH, power steering really make driving more dangerous. For example, a driver cannot feel the road.

My 1986 Accord had it. I loved it. For example, if the road suddenly became icy, a driver immediately could feel it. And then safely slowed down. GMs "big bucket of bolts" claims that problem was fixed by expensive anti-lock brakes. Which did nothing to avert ice skidding. Did not matter. Most of us automatically believe sound byte propaganda - also called lies.

Those setting adjustments probably control a tiny valve in the power steering pump. "Big bucket of bolts" would leave the valve always fully open. "Sport" would be the valve fully or almost fully closed at higher speeds. And open only when under 8 MPH - the only time power steering is really needed.

[Gravdigr]

Originally Posted by tw

Those setting adjustments probably control a tiny valve in the power steering pump.

I think most new(er) cars have electric steering assist instead of a power steering pump now-a-days don't they?

Although TW may be right about cars made way back in the olden days...

[tw]

Originally Posted by Gravdigr

I think most new(er) cars have electric steering assist

Electric steering was why the Cobalt was killing people for fourteen years.

Speed sensitive steering was found in better cars in the 1980s. Never found it in any GM car. It was too innovative.

[Gravdigr]

I think the Mustang went through some teething problems as well. The electric steering system couldn't keep up with the car on a track. I think they sussed it out, though.