A5 Power Steering Failure Symptoms & Repair Costs

Had the same issue on my 2014 A4 with the 2.0T engine. The symptoms match exactly what you describe, heavy steering wheel, inconsistent power assist, and vibrations through the steering column. The root cause was a failing power steering pump combined with worn steering rack bushings. The steering system needed a complete diagnosis because the initial error codes were misleading. The pump was not building proper pressure, causing the erratic power assist. This is considered a serious repair since the steering system is a critical safety component. The job involved: Testing the steering pump pressure, Replacing the power steering pump, Installing new steering rack bushings, Performing a wheel alignment, Clearing the error codes, Road testing to verify proper operation Would recommend having a certified shop handle this repair due to the complexity of modern steering systems and the safety implications. This is not a DIY-friendly repair as it requires specialized diagnostic equipment and proper bleeding of the power steering system. The steering should feel consistently smooth and properly weighted when working correctly. Continuing to drive with these symptoms risks further damage to other steering components.

Thanks for the detailed reply about your A4 steering issues. Your description really helped, as the symptoms sound identical to what I am experiencing with my A5. The steering wheel behavior and inconsistent power assist match exactly. My local shop suggested it might be the power steering pump, but I wanted to get more opinions before proceeding. Did any other steering system components need replacement during your repair? Also, mind sharing what the total repair cost was? Just want to have a reasonable estimate before heading to the shop. The wheel alignment part you mentioned makes sense too since the handling feels off. How has the steering been working since the fix?

Good news, my A4 steering issue turned out much simpler than initially feared. After taking it to the mechanic last week, they found the problem was just a loose electrical connection to the power steering system. They fixed the faulty cable connection for 95 Euro, which was a huge relief compared to a full pump replacement. The steering wheel now feels perfect, no more shaking or inconsistent power assist. The hydraulic fluid levels were fine and the steering pump was actually working properly once they sorted the electrical connection. They did a quick wheel alignment check while it was in, but that was all good too. My earlier assumptions about needing a new steering pump and bushings were off target. Sometimes the simplest explanation is the right one. Definitely worth having a professional diagnose the exact issue rather than replacing parts based on symptoms alone. Your A5 symptoms do sound very similar to what I experienced, so might be worth having them check the electrical connections first before looking at more expensive component replacements.

Thanks to everyone who replied. Just got back from the mechanic and wanted to share what happened in case others run into similar issues. Took it to a certified shop that specializes in these models. The technician found a damaged pressure hose in the power steering system that was causing fluid leaks. This explained the inconsistent power assist and heavy steering wheel feel. They also discovered some worn components in the steering column that needed attention. Total repair included: Replacing the faulty pressure hose, Fixing worn steering column parts, Complete wheel alignment, System flush and refill The whole job came to 450 Euro, which was not as bad as I feared given all the work done. After the repair, the steering feels solid again, no more shaking or heaviness. The error codes are gone and the handling is back to normal. Really glad I asked here first and got some perspective before going to the shop. Having that knowledge helped me better understand what they were telling me during the diagnosis.