Power Steering Squeal: Causes & Fixes

Hello everyone,
"For about a month now, the power steering pump in my Passat TDI 35i has been making squealing noises that change with the steering angle. The steering itself doesn't seem to be faulty (not stiff, no leaks, enough fluid). I've heard this noise in many VWs before. It's probably nothing unusual, but it's very annoying, and it was quiet until now (year 1996, 133,000 km)."
Has anyone dealt with this issue before? For example, would changing the fluid or something similar help?

Thank you and best regards.
Albrecht.

Hi!

Check the hydraulic fluid level while the engine is running.
If there is air in the system, the level may appear normal when the system is at rest, but when the pump is running, the air is compressed, and the level drops rapidly. When checking for air, it's best to have a second person turn the steering wheel fully to one side and hold it there, as this generates the maximum pressure.

Regards,
Jürgen.

or check the belt that drives the power steering pump. It might be worn out, causing it to 'slip' on the pulley, or it might not have enough tension.

Albrecht, kann beide vorschlagen nur bestätigen, gleiche Problem hatte mein Vater beim A8. Air in the system.

Good luck .

Sebastiaan.

Thanks for the tips, I'll take a closer look at the system again!

Best regards, Albrecht.

Hello Albrecht,
I also used to hear those noises in my old 'Volvo selig' (a 740 model with an LT diesel engine).
The cause was (also) air in the system.

Best regards, Rudi.

P.S.: I hope you managed to get out of that muddy mess relatively unscathed.

Hello Rudi,
The Passat is fine, and there is now air in the basement again .

Thanks again for the tips.
Best regards, Albrecht.