Motor wash - no power steering afterwards

Hello everyone,

Is it normal to have to drive for 2 minutes without power steering after having the engine compartment cleaned (using a cold cleaner and a pressure washer)?

I just (again) cleaned the engine (because there was a leaking thread on the oil pressure switch), and afterwards, it was like always. I had to let the engine of the Audi 80 (B4), 1.9 TDI (1Z) run for a few minutes and, while it was running, turn the steering wheel with considerable force in both directions to restore power steering assistance.

What could be the reason for that? Could the wet V-belt be slipping, or has water leaked in somewhere where it shouldn't be?

This isn't the first time this has happened; it always occurs after an engine wash.

Is it actually normal to have to use the car for 2 minutes without power steering after a car wash (cold cleaner + pressure washer)?

Hello, of course not.

What could be the reason for that? Is it possible that the wet V-belt is slipping, or has water entered somewhere where it shouldn't be?

I would initially suspect wet serpentine belts, as your power steering system operates more or less mechanically.
However, if the belts are slipping, you would be able to hear it. However, a wet belt, or a belt contaminated with cleaning agents or oil mist, does not grip very well .
Best regards, Jochen.

It's perfectly normal for the KRR to slip until it's dry.
"However, I would advise against using pressure washers frequently, as it's better to use brake cleaner to remove the oil."

I suspect it's an outdated serpentine belt that has reached the end of its lifespan. In my opinion, a two-minute wait time is no longer within the realm of normal.

If the V-belt is worn, it will initially slip primarily in extreme wet conditions (e.g., when washing), and later also in heavy rain, until it starts slipping even with the slightest amount of moisture. The belt costs about 10 euros, and the replacement is quick to do. It's better to replace it now than to find yourself unable to turn the car during the next heavy rain because the power steering unexpectedly fails.

Regards,
Guste.

Okay, so the to-do list is clear. The timing belt will be replaced on Monday, and both serpentine belts will be added to the list as well.

Thank you!!!