Hi all,

The present Mrs has a Punto 1.2 16v Sporting (01) Y reg.

We're having the usual power steering problems - intermittent failure etc. I have read on here before about the blue connector at the bottom of the steering column - BUT - I cannot for the life of me get the shroud off! I've found 2 hex bolts on the bottom section - but where are the others?

I just wanted to check everything under there before I had my wallet lightened at the FIAT dealer near us.

Funny though, as the steering keeps going when my wife drives it, but has only done it once when I've driven it. She does have the seat as far forward as it can go though and when I drove it, the only time I could make the steering go (and the light on the dash come on), was when I had the seat as far forward as I could put it and braked while trying to sort of catch the steering column with my foot.

Is it possible that there's a loose connection that gets caught when the driver's seat is far enough forward to allow the leg/foot to touch the steering column?

there's 4 altogether 2 near the front and 2 behind the steering wheel adjuster.

Yes it could be just a loose connection, how long does the light stay on for?

Dan

And 3 10mm bolts for the metal cover over the steering ECU.Doubt if you will find anything wrong as the motor torque sensors will probably be at fault so bring along to your local dealer your cash/chequebook,visa or soul:devil:

the power steering light came on my punto a few times for about a second, but this was just a drop in voltage I think, so I ignored it.

If it's not this then it's probably as T14086 said, off to your local FIAT dealer with a wad of cash in your hand.

yeah steering columns you looking at £500 ish

Thanks for the replies guys.

Have asked the Mrs to try driving it with the seat back a few notches and it seems to be working so far...

She can't reach the pedals now, but at least she can steer...

Looks like I'll be nailing a couple of blocks to her shoes this weekends then...

Why are Puntos so crap with the steering? I have NEVER heard of any other car have so many problems with the steering. If it's that bad, surely they should have been recalled...

Steering = Electric

Fiat + Electrics =

I think there has to be a certain amount of people to complain and a safety issue before it warrants a recall (I read somewhere)

hope you get it sorted

Dan

trissybabes said:

I have NEVER heard of any other car have so many problems with the steering.

Click to expand...

New style mini.

T14086 said:

New style mini.

Click to expand...

Oh yeah - I gather all the gearbaoxes are fork 'n' knifed on those aren't they?

Seats break aswell.........dunno how a mini owner can stand the noise of that electric steering pump(drives me mad WITH the radio on) and those ghastly silver plastic cheap switches:yuck: