VW Sharan Steering Failure: Pump and Column Alert

Had the same symptoms on a 2002 VW Passat 1.9 TDI. The power steering system was showing similar issues, heavy steering feel and significant wheel shake. The root cause turned out to be a damaged wiring harness connecting to the power steering control module. The constant engine vibration had worn through the protective sleeve, causing intermittent electrical connection issues. This triggered the error code and affected the hydraulic fluid pressure in the steering system. The repair involved: Testing the power steering pump functionality, Inspecting the steering wheel alignment and column, Replacing the damaged wiring harness section, Clearing the error codes, Refilling the hydraulic fluid reservoir This was a serious issue requiring immediate attention, as complete power steering failure could have occurred. The steering system relies heavily on proper electrical signals to regulate hydraulic pressure. Recommend having a certified mechanic: 1. Check all electrical connections to the power steering components 2. Perform pressure testing of the hydraulic system 3. Inspect steering rack mounting points 4. Test power steering pump operation These symptoms should not be ignored as they typically worsen quickly and can lead to unsafe driving conditions.

Thanks for sharing your experience. Same thing happened to my old Sharan, the steering wheel went from slightly shaky to completely unreliable in just weeks. My mechanic found both electrical issues and a failing steering pump. The hydraulic fluid was also contaminated, causing extra strain on the whole steering system. Good to hear you got it sorted with just the wiring harness. Did the repair cost come in reasonable? Also wondering if the steering rack gave you any more trouble after fixing the initial problem? Sometimes these issues can cascade if not caught early.

Just got back from having this resolved, turns out my initial post was right about the wiring being the core issue. The mechanic found a loose connection at the power steering control module that was causing all those steering problems I mentioned. The repair was surprisingly affordable at 95€, mainly covering labor to trace and fix the cable connection. Since getting it sorted, the power steering works perfectly again, no more heavy steering or shaking at the wheel. The steering rack and all other components were actually in good shape, just that electrical fault was making everything act up. To answer your question about long-term reliability, its been completely trouble-free since the repair. The wheel alignment stays true and the power steering delivers consistent pressure when turning. Really shows how a small electrical issue can mimic major mechanical steering problems. Smart of you to catch those signs early with your Sharan. When the power steering starts acting up, getting it checked right away usually prevents those cascade failures you mentioned. Contaminated hydraulic fluid especially can wreck havoc throughout the whole steering system if left unchecked.

I finally got my Sharan fixed last week. The mechanic discovered a failing pressure hose and worn electric steering components. The fluid was leaking slowly, causing air to get into the steering system. Total repair came to 450€ including: New pressure hose installation, Electric steering module repair, System flush and fluid replacement, Steering column inspection The steering feels solid now, no more shaking or heavy spots when turning. Glad I brought it in before the issue got worse. The mechanic showed me how the old pressure hose was cracking and could have burst any time. Drove about 500km since the repair with zero issues. The steering rack is working smoothly and the error code is gone. Definitely worth getting it sorted properly rather than trying quick fixes. Thanks for all the advice here. Really helped me understand the problem before going to the shop. Having that knowledge made me more confident when discussing the repair options.