What's causing my Vauxhall Vectra's power steering to fail and 'knock'?

I have a Vauxhall Vectra CDTI 150 2005 model. I have a problem with the power steering pump, which works intermittently. On start up it either works or it doesn't, and when it doesn't work the pump (electric with a white bottle on top) will knock a bit, like a heartbeat. I have so far changed the battery and alternator and also the pump itself, but no cure. I also had an auto electrician look at it. He plugged it into his diagnostic machine but reported nothing, and he himself was baffled. Have you any ideas?

Asked on 25 July 2010 by waldopepper

Answered by Honest John
All I can think of is a bad earth to the motor or a crooked steering rack.
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