Just encountered a very strange problem with the steering on my 1998 Xsara 1.9TD. When turning right, after about half a turn of the wheel it becomes difficult to turn. If you push through it things are fine. It doesn't really cause a problem when driving except on roundabouts where it can feel a bit like you've encountered a "stop" on the wheel before you turn a little harder.
Power steering fluid level is normal, there's no cack in the filter or reservoir, and no strange noises from the pump. Tyre pressures are normal. There is a bit of belt slip under full lock but that's happened ever since I had the belts changed. This has come on in the last few days.
Haven't hit any potholes or kerbed the wheels. Any advice appreciated!
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last time i had a car do this on inspection the rack gear was out of true and had a high point i can only think from the suspension being whacked.......
sounds dangerous by the way because you may be in a position where you need to do a bit of opposite lock and you may fail to turn it quick enough.
Eurocarparts have power racks on at silly prices at the moment if it is indeed the rack
easiest way to check is to jack up both sides and with engine running pull wheels back and fourth feeling for the sticky bit then get someone to pull while you see why...
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My brother-in-law had this on his 306 D Turbo except it was intermittent.
A replacement rack cured it instantly. Not the most pleasant job in the world though.
Cheers
DP
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Well, I put the car on axle stands (on second attempt, first involved the trolley jack rolling backwards and dropping the car leaving a nice dent in the floorpan - TUV approved, my arse) and could detect no stiffness when turning the wheels by hand or with the steering wheel with engine off. Didn't start or stop engine while it was up on the stands due to the shudder when stopping it, have already risked my life enough for one day.
Oldman - fortunately, it doesn't affect the speed at which you can steer, it's more a feeling in the back of your head of "this doesn't feel right", and is really only noticable when using one hand to steer. Couldn't see anything bent or twisted under there - the one thing I thought looked a bit iffy was identical to the other side, although with more paint flaking off.
Garage later in the week, I think!
Many thanks,
David.
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I don't know what suspension system the Xsara has but if it is Macphereson strut, by jacking it up you have taken the load off the top mount. May be that is causing it.
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Id check the top mounts/ wind up bearings usually the near side wears the most due to substandard road surfaces at edges.
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Any idea how I'd check those, bignick?
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I had exactly the same problem on my 1994 306TD, seems to be a fairly common problem on these and VERY annoying too. Only occurred at low speeds, especially when parking. Replacement steering rack for £25 from a local breakers, new track rod ends and a total bill for £200 inc vat and Bob's your uncle problem solved!
Martin
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You can get a recon PAS rack with a years warranty for less then £125 if you search the internet, Better then a second hand one from a breakers.
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According to the handy-dandy warranty I got with the car 2 and a bit years ago, the whole of the steering is covered, including the rack. So won't have to pay for it anyway. I was actually hoping something expensive would break this summer so I get my money's worth on the warranty. ;)
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Why do I get the feeling the fair wear & tear clause will be banded about by the warranty company.
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Err... since when do steering racks wear out?
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Good luck with the warranty claim but most warranty compaines wont replace something untill its totally broken / non servicable.
The power steering is still working, It might have a tight spot but it still steers.
So they might try to get out that way.
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Fortunately, I have an excellent relationship with my local independent garage. I'm sure they'll think of something. :)
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>>but most warranty compaines wont replace something untill its totally broken / non servicable.
The power steering is still working, It might have a tight spot but it still steers.
steering is dangerous in this condition, and would think it would be replaced under warranty assuming rack is the problem??
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Steve
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This is common problem with xsaras 306s. I don't know the exact name of the part involved but it is the 'knuckle' joint that attaches the steering column to the steering rack. The joint becomes worn and results in it being sticky. Any power steering xsara maybe 306 will provide this part which is relatively easy to replace.
Goodluck
A steering rack is not required.
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>>I don't know the exact name of the part involved but it is the 'knuckle' joint that attaches the steering column to the steering rack.
Universal joint I think you mean,I did wonder if that might be the problem?
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Steve
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Drat - the UJ is buried behind the engine. Think a wheel is going to have to come off to get to it, and as I'm going away for 4 days (not in this car), it's going to have to wait.
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Garage stuck it up on a ramp and lathered the UJ in grease. Good as new now - it's weird how much lighter the steering feels. :)
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There will be some wear in the joint which will result in heat and in the disappearance of the new grease and the return of the dodgy steering. Replacement of the UJ is the only answer unless you want to grease every few weeks, its not an impossible task. Its amazing how 'new' the steering feels.
Goodluck
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once these joints start playing up its time to replace IMO
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Steve
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Well, that's what I thought but the garage told me that there was no play evident in the joint so it should be OK. I guess it's just a matter of keeping an eye on it. :)
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