Hi all,

I have two issues I am trying to resolve and do not seem to get the information from anyone here in SA.

1. I have a recurring steering issue that the steering warning appears and the steering goes stiff, but on diagnosis no code is recorded.

2. Mainly when pulling away you can feel the vehicle braking when turning the steering, in first or reverse it is the same. Feels as though Emergency/Handbrake is on. This is also apparent when driving and turning, especially sharp turns.
I have received comments as wheel alignment, wrong size tyres...duh

Then also where is a reasonable place for parts (UK Pound exchange a bit rough for us right now...)

Please assist where able.

The steering is electric and uses the most power at low engine speeds just where the generator is not doing very much.

You need to fit a voltmeter that can be seen while driving to check the system voltage when it's working under load (e.g. when steering is working). A weak battery or alternator not charging properly will drop the system volts causing the steering to stall. You can use the cigar lighter socket as a power source for the voltmeter.

If you can feel any pulsing thought the steering wheel the issue will be torque sensors, which can be replaced. A search of the forum will find some detailed instructions.

This is a replacement torque sensor unit (much easier than soldering the circuit board). Obviously, check its compatible with your car.
https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/Fiat-Panda-169-Torque-Sensor-Steer-Angle-Sensor-Power-Steering-without-Esp/112346815291?fits=Car+Make%3AFiat%7CModel%3APanda%7CPlat_Gen%3A169&hash=item1a28645b3b:gmIAAOSwcj1aP12X

If you understand electronic circuit boards this might be useful -
https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/POWER-STEERING-STEERING-COLUMN-FIAT-PANDA-COMPONENETS-REPAIR-STEERING-FIAT-PANDA/382366564710?hash=item5906d2c166:m:mhcHZe9sNqzdu5a9hmmO43w

These people repair steering columns
https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/Fiat-Panda-169-Spare-Steering-Column-Electric-Servo-Power/112715858032?fits=Car+Make%3AFiat%7CModel%3APanda%7CPlat_Gen%3A169&epid=1724733414&hash=item1a3e638070:g:MIcAAOSwnTdaPllS

Prices from UK companies have increased considerably
https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/FIAT-PAN...en:169&hash=item41f609d8f8:g:2EcAAOxygPtS7PUz

For the steering issue, I'd start with a new battery. As previously mentioned the steering is power-hungry.