Power Steering Problems

[Kraemer]

Hi Everyone,

I have a 2006 X-TYPE SPORT AWD AUTO, V6, 3.0 L, Estate.

Its no a big problem (at the moment at least), but I get a slight judder when I turn the steering wheel, as if the power steering is cutting out and then back in again.

It only seems to happen in the 5 mins after start up, after that it doesn’t seem to occur.

If anyone knows what might cause this id be grateful for any input. 

All advice appreciated 🙂

Cheers

Mike

[richdraper]

Hi Mike,

Welcome to the forum, 

1) Initially sounds like air in the system. When cold and with the engine running, check the level in the reservoir. if its low top it up if its not then its on to the next thing. As the steering fluid heats up/thins out it tends to 'hide' issues that are there from cold. With heat the Oil expands so the level in the reservoir rises possibly masking a low Oil level when cold. You should really always check steering fluid and Auto box Fluid when its cold. Any 'Dextron 3' ATF is fine. The system takes a total of 1.2lts.

2) Follow the pipes from the reservoir as best you can and with someone helping you get them to turn the wheel. You would see any vibration in the system accentuated in the rubber portion of the pipes, ensure they're all clipped properly etc. 

3) One more thing to check would be top bearings (although I'd expect you to get the issue all the time...) again with someone helping you, engine running, get your helper to turn the steering left and right to recreate the issue, look at or feel the front springs, you'll soon know if there is any notchy-ness in the top bearings. 

 

Good Luck!

[Old Peter]

Welcome to the Club, Michael.

Rich has given you a very good answer.

You are quite right to make an enquiry about a slight shudder, as small issues can grow into big issues which can not only be dangerous but also expensive.

I had a similar problem with a Rover Sterling many years ago  --  I thought the steering was getting a bit heavy and as the car was less than 12 months old and still under warranty I took it back to the main dealer and the whole steering rack had to be replaced, and, thankfully, at their expense.

Regards

Peter.

 

[K1ngtr00p300]

I just purchasers a similar Jaguar. It has absolutely no power steering and no noises. If I do not spot a leak should I assume that it’s a bad pump?

Also a very heavy set fellow owned this vehicle prior. He would use the steering wheel to help him out of the vehicle which has made it wobbly & loose. Any recommendations would be awesome. Thank you

[Old Peter]

Hi Christian, and welcome to the club.

At a guess I would say that the steering system needs replacing, as it has had a heavy hand or two on it.

Regards,

Peter.