Power Steering Issue

[cb1992]

Hi

I have a 61 plate seat Ibiza (1.2 TDI) last week after my evening commute just as I went to reverse into my driveway the amber steering wheel icon illuminated on the dash and all power steering assist stopped.

Since then I seen my battery was a bit long in the tooth as the voltage was fairly low after checking with Multi-meter. So I read that this can sometimes cause issue with power steering as it draws a lot of power. I have since replaced the battery.

Now upon start up the steering light is off. Bit when I turn the wheel I get about a quarter turn of power steering assist and then the same light comes on and power steering assist stops working.

I have checked alternator with and without load and all seems fine, doesn’t drop below 13.6v with basically everything switched on.

Do you reckon this is an issue with the pump itself? Seems strange that the pump obviously works for a second then stops. I’m not the most clued up electrically speaking but am I right in saying that if the pump operates even for a 1 sec that it must be surely getting power, so connector and wiring must be ok?

Any help appreciated.

Cheers

[E-bmw]

Are you sure it isn't electrically operated power steering on the car?

It sounds more likely from your description.

[cb1992]

Hi,

Yes it is. It is an electro/mechanical system. I.e an electrically powered pump that pressurises the fluid. VW seem to implement this system rather than the belt driven pumps etc.

[Steve H]

Get it to someone that can plug in and see what faults are present but make sure they are also able to actually test and prove the fault, most garages will not be able to do this so a diag specialist would be best.

[Belle427]

I seem to remember the large main fuses near the battery can crack on these leading to an Intermittant operation.
Worth a check.