Audi A3 Power Steering Problems – Racks and Pumps

The early Audi A3 uses a conventional hydraulic power steering system which consists of a Power Steering Rack, Power Steering Pump and high pressure & low pressure hydraulic pipes which connect them together. The system is linked with a Steering column (shaft) which is what the steering wheel is fixed to at the user-end.

The later Audi A3 (2003 – ) uses the same conventional system apart from the steering rack. The newer Audi A3 has an Electric Power Steering Rack, it still has a hydraulic ram but electric motor mounted to it. The Audi A3 Electric Power Steering Rack is a common failure and we’re taking calls daily for this part – where customers are complaining or steering warning lights appearing on the dash and steering going heavy.

Below we’ve listed some common problems with the power steering components on the Audi A3 and this should hopefully help you better diagnose any faults you’re experiencing and replace the right parts.

Common Audi A3 Power Steering Pump Failures

• Leaking / Loss of Oil
• Whining
• Heavy Steering (Either Way)
• Loss of Power (When Idling Only)
• Loss of Power (When Idling & Whilst Revving)

Common Audi A3 Power Steering Rack Failures (Electric & Hydraulic)

• Leaking / Loss of Oil
• Loss of Power (When Idling & Whilst Revving)
• Steering Warning Light On Dash
• Heavy Steering (Either way)
• Heavy Steering (One-Way)
• Knocking From Steering
• Excessive Play in Steering Wheel
• Excessive Play in Track-Rod Arms

As you can see from the above, some of the problems can occur in both a Power Steering Rack and a Power Steering Pump fault – for example having Loss of Power (When Idling & Whilst Revving) but if you’re unsure as to what may be causing this problem, then give us a call and we would be happy to assist you in diagnosing the problem further.

Alternatively you may drive down to us and have one of our highly specialised engineers take a look at your vehicle and give our expert opinion of the problem.

We carry stock for the following models:

Whatever the problem – we can fix it!

We remanufacture all types of steering components, carrying the most common failing parts in stock and offer a nationwide collect & return service. All hydraulic parts come with a 2 year warranty and electric parts now come with our Lifetime warranty.