VW Bora Power Steering Failure, Warning Signs & Fixes

Had almost the exact same issue with my 2005 VW Golf last year. As someone with moderate experience working on VWs, these symptoms immediately pointed to power steering problems. The vibrating steering wheel and increased effort when turning were classic signs of a failing power steering system. After a basic inspection, the workshop found the issue was a loose connection in the steering pump wiring harness. The cable had worked itself loose over time, causing intermittent power steering failures. The fix was relatively straightforward, they repaired the connection and cleared the error codes. Total cost was 95€ including diagnostic time. Much better than having to replace the entire steering pump or steering rack. Before jumping to conclusions though, would need to know: Does the power steering warning light stay on constantly or flicker? Have you checked the power steering fluid level and condition? Are there any unusual noises when turning the wheel? Which specific error code is stored? The wheel alignment should also be checked, as misalignment can cause similar symptoms and put extra stress on the power steering components. These details would help determine if your issue matches what I experienced or if it might be something different.

Thanks for your detailed reply. I checked the steering fluid level and it appears to be full with no visible leaks. The power steering warning light stays on constantly and the error code is P0553. There is a grinding noise when turning the wheel at full lock. Last service was done at 102000km and included a general inspection but no steering related work. Will get it checked by a workshop this week but wanted to get an idea of potential repair costs first.

Thanks for the additional details. Given the constant warning light, error code P0553, and grinding noise, your issue seems more severe than what I encountered with my Golf. The P0553 code typically indicates a problem with the power steering pressure sensor circuit, rather than just a loose connection like in my case. The grinding noise at full lock strongly suggests the power steering pump is struggling or failing. When my power steering started acting up again 6 months after the wiring fix, I heard similar noises. The pressure hose was found to be deteriorating, causing inconsistent hydraulic fluid pressure. The failing pressure sensor also explains your error code. In my case, the complete repair included: New power steering pump: 380€, Pressure hose replacement: 150€, Fresh hydraulic fluid and system flush: 90€, Labor: 280€ Total came to around 900€, but prices vary between workshops. Given your symptoms are nearly identical to what I experienced, I would budget for a similar amount. Make sure they check the steering column and entire hydraulic system while they are at it, as these components often wear together. The constant warning light suggests this needs addressing soon to prevent further damage to the steering system.

Thanks for such a detailed response. The grinding noise definitely worries me, sounds like I might be facing similar repair costs to what you experienced. Will get it to the workshop tomorrow and ask them to inspect the power steering pump and pressure sensor specifically. Good point about checking the entire steering system. I remember the mechanic mentioning during the last service that the steering rack was showing some wear, so maybe its time to address multiple components. Better to fix everything properly now than risk further issues. Just hoping the total stays under 1000€. At least I know what to expect now based on your experience. Will update once I get the official diagnosis from the workshop.