Amarok Power Steering Failure: Warning Signs & Fix Tips

I experienced a similar issue with my 2017 VW Tiguan diesel last month. Having some experience working on cars, I first noticed the power steering getting progressively weaker, especially when parking. The symptoms match what you describe, heavy steering, vibrations through the steering wheel, and warning lights. After checking the power steering fluid level, which was fine, I took it to my regular workshop. Their diagnostic revealed a faulty connection in the steering system wiring harness near the steering column. The repair involved replacing damaged wiring and connectors in the power steering control module. Total cost was 95€ including diagnostics. The steering rack and pressure hose were inspected but found to be in good condition. Before suggesting more specific solutions, could you provide: Current mileage on your Amarok, Whether the steering gets heavier at certain times (cold starts, after driving a while), The exact error codes stored in the system, Any unusual noises when turning the steering wheel This information would help determine if your issue is electrical like mine was, or potentially mechanical within the steering system components.

Last service was done at 10000km and I am now at 11984km. Since your reply, I noticed the steering does get significantly heavier after driving for about 15 minutes, especially in tight parking situations. The steering pump makes a whining noise during full lock turns. The error code showing is P0553. The workshop manual mentions this relates to power steering pressure sensor circuit issues, but I am not sure if this means the sensor itself or the steering pump is failing. The pressure hose looks intact from visual inspection. Would replacing just the pressure sensor be worth trying first, or should I expect a complete steering pump replacement to be necessary? The steering rack itself seems fine with no visible leaks.

Based on your updated details, my experience ended up being quite different than initially suspected. While my Tiguan had an electrical issue, your symptoms, especially the whining noise and progressive heaviness, strongly point to a failing power steering pump rather than just a sensor problem. After getting that P0553 code on my car and hearing similar noises, I first tried replacing just the pressure sensor (250€ parts and labor). However, the issue returned within a week. The workshop then found metal particles in the power steering fluid, indicating internal pump wear. The complete pump replacement ended up being necessary, costing 780€ including a system flush and new fluid. They also recommended replacing the pressure hose as preventive maintenance since metal particles could have damaged it internally. Since your mileage is relatively low, this could potentially be covered under warranty, worth checking before proceeding with repairs. The steering pump failure at such low mileage is unusual and might indicate a manufacturing defect. My recommendation based on the similar symptoms would be to skip the sensor-only replacement and go straight for the pump to avoid paying twice. Make sure they perform a thorough system flush to remove any metal particles that could damage the new pump or steering rack.

Based on your helpful details about the pressure sensor and steering pump situation, I understand better what might be happening with my Amarok. The whining noise with the steering pump during turns and the heavy steering that gets worse with driving time is quite concerning. The error code P0553 combined with these symptoms does point more toward a pump issue than just a sensor problem. Given your experience with trying the sensor replacement first and still needing the pump changed anyway, I will skip straight to having the steering pump checked and likely replaced. Since my vehicle only has 11984km, I called my dealer and they confirmed this should be covered under warranty. They will inspect the hydraulic fluid system and steering rack for any damage from potential metal particles. They mentioned they would perform a complete power steering fluid flush as part of the repair process. Really appreciate the detailed cost breakdown you provided, 780€ for the pump replacement plus system flush would have been significant if not under warranty. Will make sure they check the pressure hose condition as well during the repair. Thanks for helping me avoid the unnecessary step of just replacing the sensor first.