Technical stiff steering

[cinquecenpunto]

i have a 2004 1.1 active, the steering is working both in normal/city modes, but when driving on a straight road, i can feel a little resistance to turning the wheel, its like stiction, the wheel moves freely when its moving, and when i wobble it side to side it feels free, but if its stopped it sticks slightly and needs a extra bit of effort to make it move, (the kind of tiny movements you you make subconsciously when driving). this is only small its barley noticeable, i'm comparing it to another car which I've just sold which had 'normal' power steering. but i find it tiring when driving. main question is, is this a fault, or is it supposed to be like this? when the wheel moves(un sticks) i can hear a slight tick noise coming from the column area also. i think it might be something to do with the motor not just something that needs greasing?

 

[Goudrons]

The steering is electric assisted (EPAS) rather than hydraulic. (PAS)

There's a motor attached to the column under the dash that assists, part of this motor is a torque sensor which detects your input, then sends the motor the appropriate power.

These torque sensors can give issue.
First signs they are giving trouble is the steering weighting up heavy one way.

There are similar problems with the Corsa C's that use a similar system, I've read a post about resetting the torque sensor.
http://www.corsa-c.co.uk/forum/showthread.php?97412-Repair-Corsa-EPS-fault-(hard-to-turn-right-left)

This is the how to get at the Corsa one, the Panda one should be fairly similar.
http://www.flickr.com/photos/22776031@N05/sets/72157622964016248/

If you're struggling, a power steering specialist is probably your best bet.

The columns can be rebuilt and are available from the likes off BBA Reman.

 

[varesecrazy]

the bearings in the top of the front supension can get "sticky" too,

but the sound in the column does point towards a PAS issue,

Charlie

 

[homeward]

power steering guru may be able to help....

 

[power steering guru]

Thanks for the mention homeward.

I think the problem is a mechanical one, we have a few pandas that suffer from seized bearings inside the upper part of the steering column. If this is the issue you would need to replace the upper part of the column but would not have to change the motor/ecu.
We usually disconnect the lower steering column shaft from where it atatches to the steering rack, and then feel the steering to see if it is still stiff, if it is then pretty sure bet that your column bearings are going tight.

I sell the upper part of the column for £185 inc. delivery.
If you need any more help then please feel free to give me a ring.
Gary 0117-9602906

 

[s and b]

well i think its the torque sensor fighting the small wheel deviations
see if anyone you know can do a reset via multiecuscan for you on the steering torque sensors
the bearings is an interesting one too mind,typical poor build quality from poland to a price

 

[tinmar49]

I have read on this forum that it is worthwhile checking battery voltage as a failing battery can cause problems with the electric power steering.

 

[varesecrazy]

I have read on this forum that it is worthwhile checking battery voltage as a failing battery can cause problems with the electric power steering.

normally low power results in RED light on , and no PAS,

the Noise from the column suggests something mechanical,

Charlie

 

[varesecrazy]

I have read on this forum that it is worthwhile checking battery voltage as a failing battery can cause problems with the electric power steering.

battery @ £43 delivered could be a cheap test if you've no access to mechanical servicing though.

Charlie