What are the causes of Audi power steering system failure?
4 Answers
Audi power steering system failure causes are introduced as follows: Steering gear oil leakage: The oil leakage locations are generally at three places - the upper cover of the steering gear, the connection between the steering shaft arm, and the side end cover. Difficult steering return: Mechanical parts of steering system, lack of lubrication causing wear between the steering knuckle kingpin and bushing, lack of lubrication in the universal joint connecting the steering wheel and steering gear. Heavy steering: Steering gear failure, power steering pump failure, lack of oil, air in the system, failure of sealing rings in two limit valves causing communication between piston chambers leading to power assistance failure, clogged return oil filter in the reservoir tank, etc.
I've driven an Audi for several years and encountered power steering system failures a few times. The root cause could be low or leaking steering fluid, especially due to aging seals in the steering pump or hydraulic lines not being tight enough, leading to fluid loss and making the steering extremely heavy. Another common factor is loose or worn belts. When the belt drives the power steering pump, if it's worn, the pump can't function properly, making the steering stiff. Additionally, accumulated dirt or air entering the system can cause hydraulic instability, affecting the power assist effect. Regular checks of fluid levels and routine maintenance can prevent these issues. If a failure occurs, avoid forcing the car to drive and promptly seek professional inspection and repair for safety.
From my experience driving the new Audi, power steering failures often stem from electronic components, such as a faulty sensor in the electric power steering system, where incorrect signals can lead to unresponsive or delayed steering. Another common issue is with the control module—either the computer miscalculates or there's a short circuit in the wiring, resulting in loss of power assistance and making the steering heavy. Unstable battery voltage can also indirectly affect the system; when the alternator doesn't supply enough power, the system can't function properly. I recommend using a diagnostic scanner to check for error codes and not ignoring minor issues—address them early to avoid safety hazards.
I believe that untimely maintenance is one of the main causes of Audi steering system failures. For example, not changing the power steering fluid on schedule, dirty fluid, or low fluid levels can lead to hydraulic issues. Long-term neglect of tire pressure can also increase steering load and accelerate system wear. Checking fluid levels is relatively simple—just open the hood and inspect the dipstick. If the fluid is low, topping it up promptly can significantly reduce the likelihood of faults.
