VW Golf Power Steering Failure Causing Heavy Vibration

I encountered similar symptoms with my 2012 VW Passat TDI. The steering wheel shake and heavy steering pointed to multiple issues in the steering system. The diagnosis revealed low hydraulic fluid levels caused by a leaking pressure hose. The hydraulic fluid was seeping out gradually, affecting the power steering pump performance. The wheel alignment was also affected as a result. This turned into a serious repair job since the power steering pump had been running with insufficient fluid, causing internal damage. The entire repair required: Replacing the damaged pressure hose, Installing a new power steering pump, Refilling with fresh hydraulic fluid, Complete wheel alignment The check engine light in your case could indicate the power steering system is straining the engine due to the malfunction. Running the car in this condition risks further damage to the steering system components. Getting this fixed promptly is crucial for safety. The symptoms suggest similar issues to what I experienced, likely a combination of hydraulic fluid loss and power steering pump problems. These steering issues typically worsen quickly if left unaddressed.

Thanks for sharing your experience. Sounds exactly like what I am dealing with on my VW. The steering rack feels completely shot and the steering column makes weird noises. Got it checked yesterday and they also found issues with the pressure hose and power steering pump. Did you remember roughly how much the total repair cost? Also curious if you had any recurring problems with the steering system since getting it fixed? The shop quoted me quite a high amount so trying to gauge if that is normal for this type of repair.

The total repairs on my VW ended up being much simpler than expected. While I initially feared major issues with the steering pump and hydraulic system, it turned out to be just a faulty electrical connection. The mechanic found a damaged cable connecting to the electric steering components. After fixing the connection and properly securing the plug for 95€, the power steering function returned to normal. Nothing else needed replacement. Unlike my initial experience, I have had zero issues with the steering system since this repair. The steering wheel operates smoothly now without any shaking or heaviness. If your quote is significantly higher, it might be worth getting a second opinion to check if there are simpler electrical issues before replacing major components. The wheel alignment was checked during the inspection but did not require adjustment. This relatively minor fix saved me from what could have been a much more expensive repair involving the entire power steering system.

Thanks for the follow up. Just got back from the mechanic and my situation turned out different from your electrical fix. The power steering pump was completely failed and the hydraulic fluid had leaked everywhere from a torn pressure hose. Total bill came to 850€ for replacing the pump, hose, and fresh hydraulic fluid. They also did a wheel alignment since the steering was so out of whack. More than I wanted to spend but at least the steering wheel feels solid again with no more shaking or stiffness. The mechanic showed me the old parts, the pump was definitely shot and the hose had a nasty tear. Said I was lucky to catch it before it caused more damage. Been driving it for a few days now and the electric power steering works perfectly. No more check engine light either. Lesson learned about getting weird steering issues checked out quickly before they get worse. At least I can park properly again without fighting the wheel!