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2003 Volkswagen Jetta Steering is stiff on outer revolution

Tiny
JASON&JENA
  • MEMBER
  • 2003 VOLKSWAGEN JETTA
  • 4 CYL
  • FWD
  • AUTOMATIC
  • 11,500 MILES
Our Jetta's steering has become noticeably stiffer in recent months when the steering wheel is turned all the way to the right and left, as when parking and maneuvering at slow speeds.

Fluid level is good, Chilton's makes no suggestions that fit this bi-lateral issue, and steering is still great at road speeds.

Trying to avoid costly diagnostics if its just a simple fix that I'm just too city-fied to notice.
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Monday, May 3rd, 2010 AT 9:52 PM

4 Replies

Tiny
JASON&JENA
  • MEMBER
  • 6 POSTS
Its been a few days and I was under the impression someone would be able to provide some sort of insight by now. I am open to guesses here.

Can somebody please chime so I know if this car is even safe to be on the road?
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Friday, May 7th, 2010 AT 8:42 AM
Tiny
2 LINSEY
  • MECHANIC
  • 287 POSTS
Hi jason, It sounds like it might be the rack and pinion since it does it both ways. You need to have a pressure test done on the pump to be sure it is working properly at high demand (cranked wheels) That will be your first step. As for it being safe to drive, probably. It sounds like it will need either a new rack or pump. Is there any sings of leaks from either of those two? Let me know
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Friday, May 7th, 2010 AT 2:48 PM
Tiny
JASON&JENA
  • MEMBER
  • 6 POSTS
There is no sign of leaking on the garage floor? Would it make it that far or would it only leak when the system is stressed?
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Friday, May 7th, 2010 AT 7:44 PM
Tiny
KHLOW2008
  • MECHANIC
  • 41,815 POSTS
If there is no leaking on the floor and the level of the fluid is good, then it should not be the cause.

Check if the belt tension is good. A loose belt would result in heavier steering as it would slip and reduce the pump speed when pressure is required by the steering.

If there is no abnormal feeling such as signs of seizing, then the vehicle should be safe to drive.
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Saturday, May 8th, 2010 AT 12:22 PM

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