Audi TT Power Steering Shakes and Feels Heavy

Had the same steering wheel issues with my 2003 Audi A4 1.8T. The power steering system showed similar symptoms, heavy steering at low speeds and inconsistent handling. The diagnostic revealed a faulty power steering pressure hose that was leaking hydraulic fluid, causing the power steering pump to work harder than normal. The repair involved replacing both the pressure hose and the power steering pump since the lack of proper fluid circulation had already damaged the pump components. The wheel alignment also needed adjustment after the repair to ensure proper tracking. This is considered a serious issue since power steering failure can lead to complete loss of steering assist and potentially dangerous driving conditions. The repair should not be postponed as continued driving can cause more extensive damage to the steering system. When the hydraulic fluid levels drop due to leaks, the entire power steering system gets compromised. The symptoms you describe, particularly the shaking steering wheel and heavy feel, match exactly what I experienced before getting it fixed. The repair requires specialized tools and expertise with Audi power steering systems. Suggest having it checked by a certified shop that regularly works on VAG vehicles.

Those symptoms definitely sound familiar. After getting my TT repaired, the steering became smooth again and the heavy feel completely disappeared. The electric power steering went back to normal, and the steering rack has been working perfectly since then. Quick question, do you remember roughly what you paid for the full repair? Also curious if any other issues popped up afterward with the steering system? Mine was fixed about 6 months ago but always good to know what to watch out for.

Thanks for the update on your TT. Good to hear the steering issues were resolved. My repair ended up being straightforward, just a loose connection between components that was causing the power steering to malfunction. Total cost was 95 Euro for diagnosing and fixing the cable connection. Much cheaper than replacing the entire steering rack or pressure hose like I initially feared. The steering system has worked flawlessly since the repair. No more heavy steering or shaking, and the hydraulic fluid levels have remained stable. Regular checks show everything is functioning as it should. For preventive maintenance, I still monitor for any unusual noises or resistance when turning the wheel, especially during low-speed maneuvers. A proper wheel alignment check every year helps catch potential issues early. But honestly, once the power steering was properly fixed, I have not experienced any recurring problems with the steering components.

I am glad I took it to a professional mechanic this time. The total repair cost came to 780 Euro which included replacing the power steering pump and fixing a worn pressure hose. The steering rack was actually fine, just needed proper hydraulic fluid levels restored. The mechanic showed me the old pump which had scoring marks inside from running with low fluid. Getting it fixed properly was worth every cent, no more wrestling with the steering wheel in parking lots or feeling that concerning shake at highway speeds. After 6 months, the electric steering assist works perfectly and handling is crisp again. Had the alignment checked last week just to be safe, but everything is still spot on. Much better experience than my previous repair attempts that never fully solved the issue. Just remember to watch those power steering fluid levels during regular maintenance. A small leak can turn into a bigger problem if left unchecked. Learned that lesson the hard way, but at least now I know what warning signs to look for.