VW Suran Power Steering Failure Alert

I had a similar issue with my 2012 VW CrossFox, and having some experience with power steering problems, I can share what worked for me. The symptoms were exactly like yours, heavy steering wheel, inconsistent handling, and the power steering warning light. After struggling with it for a few days, I took it to my regular workshop. They diagnosed a faulty wiring connection between the power steering control module and the main harness. The fix involved: Testing the power steering pressure hose connections, Complete diagnostic scan, Replacing damaged wiring and connectors, Recalibrating the power steering system Total repair cost was 95€ and took about 2 hours to complete. The wheel alignment was also checked as a precaution. Before suggesting more specific solutions, could you share: Does the steering feel heavier on one side? When exactly did the warning light first appear? Have you noticed any hydraulic fluid leaks? Did you hear any unusual noises before the problem started? This information would help determine if your issue is similar to what I experienced or if it might be something else in the steering system.

Thanks for this helpful info. My vehicle has 32740km and was last serviced 3 months ago. The steering feels equally heavy on both sides, and the warning light started flashing last Tuesday. No fluid leaks since its an electric steering system, but I noticed a slight clicking noise from the steering column when turning. Think my situation sounds similar to yours. Will have the steering control module connections checked. Its good to know the repair costs and time are reasonable. Hopefully just need some wiring fixes and a wheel alignment rather than replacing the entire electric steering unit. Just wondering if driving with this issue could cause more damage to the steering components? Been trying to minimize use of the car until I can get it to a workshop next week.

Thanks for providing those details. The clicking noise from the steering column actually suggests your issue might be different from my initial diagnosis. While my repair was purely electrical, that clicking sound often indicates mechanical wear in the steering system components. My recommendation based on experience: avoid driving the car until repaired. When my power steering failed, continued driving caused additional wear to the steering rack and column bearings, turning a simple repair into a much costlier fix. From what you describe, I suspect you might be dealing with: Worn steering column joints, Failing electric power steering motor, Damaged steering sensor In my case, ignoring the early warning signs led to a complete power steering failure that required a full system replacement, costing over 800€. The clicking noise you mentioned is particularly concerning, this was absent in my situation, but other forum members have reported it as a precursor to steering column failure. The low mileage on your car suggests this could be a manufacturing defect rather than normal wear. Worth checking if any warranty coverage still applies, even though the car is older. To prevent further issues with the steering system, having it properly diagnosed and repaired as soon as possible is crucial. When working properly, the power steering should operate smoothly without any unusual sounds or resistance.

Thank you for all this information and advice. Your experience puts things in perspective. The clicking noise from the steering column does make my situation sound different from your wiring issue. After hearing about the potential problems with continuing to drive, I will park the car until my workshop appointment next week. Not worth risking more extensive damage to the electric steering system components just to save a few days. The service records show my car had some steering column work done under warranty back in 2011, so maybe there is an underlying issue there. Really appreciate the breakdown of possible causes, will ask them to specifically check the steering column joints, power steering motor and sensors. At least I now have a better idea of the best case (95€ wiring fix) and worst case (800€ full system replacement) repair costs to expect. Going to call my workshop tomorrow and explain the symptoms in detail, especially the clicking noise from the steering column. Hopefully catching this early will keep the repair costs on the lower end.