Power steering issues

[ty222]

Hi all, I think I have a power steering issue but could be wrong as I have no lights on the dash.

The steering is heavier than I remember it and when you get the steering wheel into the neutral resting position and go left or right it's very hard, it almost would feel like it's catching something (it isn't I've checked)

It makes it's whirring sound like it should so I would say it is electrically functioning too.

Have I got this wrong, is there anything I could try please?

[McMr2]

Hi all, I think I have a power steering issue but could be wrong as I have no lights on the dash.

The steering is heavier than I remember it and when you get the steering wheel into the neutral resting position and go left or right it's very hard, it almost would feel like it's catching something (it isn't I've checked)

It makes it's whirring sound like it should so I would say it is electrically functioning too.

Have I got this wrong, is there anything I could try please?

Check basics first to rule out something easy:

-tyre pressures
-steering fluid level
-wheel nuts tight (you'd probably have noticed this one)

Is the alignment ok? Can make a big difference to steering feel.

[Carolyn]

Could be the steering lower U-joint.

[steveash]

Sounds like the lower steering universal joint has had it. To find out if that's correct spray some WD40 on it. If it improves then it needs changing (the WD40 fix is only temporary). I've been trying to change mine today, it 'should' be a fairly easy job.

You may otherwise/also need to change the power steering fluid. It isn't part of the service schedule and if never changed will be black rather than clear.

[MrChris]

The whine could well be low power steering fluid, a very easy check and I'd do it ASAP.

[ty222]

Thanks guys, I'm going to look into the joint as the fluid looks fine, a little brown but not dirty black. nuts are tight and pressures are all high.

[ty222]

Great news everyone, the new uj has fixed the issue, the old one was so rusty and rigid I couldn't believe it. Thanks for the replies and help yet again!

Does anyone have a link to purchase one of the bolts please? Mine is OK but rusty

[Gaz mr-s]

Now give it a light coating of grease & wrap it with some stout polythene & a couple of cable ties.

[J88TEO]

or @Snelbaard's steering boot kit. Worth the money.