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My 1996 960 has developed a power steering fault. The steering has become heavy and very lumpy and does not self centre after turning a corner. What is the likeliest cause?
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You have to do this test to find out why the steering is heavy.
after you check the steering fluid level and top it up if needed.
start the engine let it IDLE try to turn steering and feel how hard or soft is.
Now rev the engine up to 2500 rpm and keep holding the rev. test the steering while you still holdind the rev.
if you feel no difference, the problem is the steering rack it self.
if the steering get softer while you rev up, the problem is the power steering pump.
Good Luck
check drive belt for the power steering and check belt tension. Check oil level in reservoir. Have a pressure test done on the power steering pump to check for stuck relief valves.
The electric power steering units are just a problem waiting to happen, they sit close to the road and contain electronics that can't get wet but often do especially in areas where you may have to drive through heavy rainfall. There are not a lot of options unless you can locate someone dismantling a vehicle that you can buy parts from.
sounds like your power steering is failing, get it checked at a garage asap, steering is important when going fast :), probably needs steering wheel taken apart and power steering components checked for wear/damage.
you wont have any power steering for a start if its realy packed up,, but they do get kind of ***** and lumpy before they go,, look for oil leaks and also try turning the wheel from lock to lock at a stand still with the engine running , if it fells ***** look to see if the prowr steering oil is full up, if its low that can cause the steering to be lumpy,, if its low top it up and with the engine running turn the steering from full lock to full lock till all the air has been pumped out,,the steering should be smooth by then
Make sure the power steering belt is not loose. Also check the power steering fluid level.If these are ok the pump it self my be weak. But most times its the loose belt.
when the engine is idling is it stiffer than normal,does it get lighter when revved,any noises,1st to check is the power steering pump drive belt if the tension is ok then may have a pump fault as it it not maintaining pressure.
It could be the pump, or you could also be low on power steering fluid. First off, check the level of the fluid and make sure it's adequate. Next, you can "burp" the power steering system easily, which will get rid of any air bubbles that could be in there. Easiest way is to jack the front end off the ground (both wheels), start the engine, take off the power steering fluid reservoir cap, and turn the wheel side to side as far as it'll go, several times. This circulates the fluid through the system and pushes any bubbles in there up to the reservoir, where they'll float up to the top and "burp" into the air.
If neither of those things works, you may have problems with the steering rack and pinion, or possibly with your suspension (check the tie rods, inner and outer, as well as the bushings in the various suspension pieces).
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