What are the causes of Audi power steering system failure?
3 Answers
Here is an introduction to the causes of Audi power steering system failures: 1. Abnormal noise during steering: The reason for abnormal noise when the car is steering is usually due to damage to the kingpin and bushing or failure of the column thrust bearing. When encountering this situation, you can turn the steering wheel left and right to identify the source of the noise and proceed with disassembly and inspection. 2. Steering gear oil leakage: Oil leakage in the steering gear usually occurs at three locations: the upper cover of the steering gear, the connection between the steering shaft and the arm, and the side end cover. This is often caused by prolonged use of the car leading to sealing issues. Since these three parts have sealing rings, replacing the new oil seal and sealing ring can solve the problem. However, if oil leakage occurs in other parts, it may be caused by sand holes or cracks in the steering gear housing. Small gaps can be sealed with high-permeability sealant, while larger gaps require replacement of the corresponding parts.
Last time my friend was driving an Audi and the steering suddenly became heavy with a squeaking noise, so they asked me to help check it. I found that common causes include aging or loose sensors in the electric power steering system leading to signal failure, insufficient pressure from a worn-out power steering pump making steering difficult, or leaking or contaminated steering fluid clogging the pipes. Additionally, poor electrical contact can interrupt the circuit. A sudden steering system failure at high speeds can be very dangerous—first, turn off the engine, pull over safely, and then call for assistance. I recommend everyone pay attention to whether the steering feels smooth while driving. If you notice stiffness or unusual noises, take the car to a professional shop early to inspect components like the steering column and ECU. Audi's electric power steering is quite precise but ages quickly, so regular maintenance is essential for reliability. Avoid dismantling it yourself to prevent damaging parts.
My Audi started making occasional creaking noises and shaking when turning after five years of use. When I took it to the mechanic, the experienced technician said it's a typical power steering failure, possibly caused by worn-out bearings in the power steering pump leading to vibrations and abnormal noises, insufficient or leaking fluid causing pressure drops, or sensor data errors causing the system to misjudge the steering angle. The electric motor overheating and shutting down could also be the culprit. Issues with the electronic control unit software might also be to blame, especially on bumpy roads where faults are more likely to manifest. After the failure, the steering force increases, making turns more strenuous—once, it nearly caused an accident. So now, I make it a habit to test the steering wheel before driving to ensure it's responsive for peace of mind. Regularly changing the power steering fluid and checking the power steering lines can prevent most issues. Don't wait until it breaks down to fix it—it's costly and dangerous. Audi's system repairs aren't cheap, but safety must be prioritized.
