Hello all!
I have an 06 TL 6MT and I'm having the following issue: if I'm stopped, with the engine at idle and I try to turn the steering from one end to another it takes very considerable effort.
If I rev the engine to about 2000 rpm and I do the same thing it's waaaay better, pretty much how it should be.
I don't go around messing with the steering while stopped but lately when I pull into a parking spot and while I'm turning I press the clutch, the engine rpms drop to idle and the steering tightens considerably... pretty close to causing an accident.
I've taken the car to the dealer and they told me it's within specs. I told them I could feel it getting worse in the past two months, so it can't be, but they still tell me it's fine. They say they tested with another TL (i don't believe it) and it's exactly the same.
So, long story short, can anybody test and let me know if their steering feels the same at idle and at 2000 rpm? The dealer told me it's normal for the power steering to work better at higher RPMs but I know for a fact the power steering pump is supposed to generate the proper working pressure even at idle.
I honestly suspect a weak steering pump but I only have 46k miles...
Your help would be very appreciated!
Alin.

 

Nobody on this forum with a 2004-2008 6spd TL that can do that test for me real quick? It would only take 30 seconds...
I would really appreciate it!

 

No test needed. It shouldn't take "very considerable effort" to turn the wheel with the engine running, regardless of RPM. Did you check the PS fluid level?

Have you had the O-ring TSB and the PS recall (two separate issues) done?

 

check your belts as well.

 

Thanks for the replies!

My power steering takes noticeably more effort at idle than at 2000 rpms... that's what's bugging me... I too think it should be the same at all rpms...

The PS hose recall was done and the dealer just replaced the infamous inlet o-ring. That made no difference as the pump was not "moaning" under load. PS fluid level is above the top mark with the engine off. Belts are in good shape and not slipping.

What I noticed is that if I try to turn the steering wheel slow it's much better than trying to quickly turn the steering wheel. If I do it quickly it's almost like it's fighting me.

Dealer basically said to come back if it gets worse...
Honestly if it's just the pump I'll just replace it myself... not worth the time and hassle.

Any other ideas?
Thanks so far for your help!

 

Time to get firm with your service manager....Make them show you how your car behaves just like one on their lot. Park them side by side, crank them up, and then move from one car to the other and turn the wheel on each.

 

I have the same problem. The dealer replaced the power steering pump and it was like new again for about 15k miles. Now it is hard again. The car has 56k on it and this if frustrating to say the least. In the service manual it lists several things that can cause hard steering. Now all I have to do is convince the dealer to perform the tests. This problem doesn't happen every time I turn the wheel at idle. Most of the time it is after the engine has completely warmed up.

 

That's exactly how mine is, at cold startup it's almost perfect... after a while it becomes crappy. I will go back to the dealer since it's definitely not normal.
Thanks for the help guys!

 

Not sure if this is a factor for you:

Remember, your warranty mileage is good to 52,500 miles, not 50K, due to the successful odometer class action lawsuit.

 

Hi, I have the exact same issue; my steering wheel is so heavy usually when i am parking. Sometimes, it is impossible to turn the wheel. I have checked the power steering fluid, and it is full. It has only 63000 miles and this is not normal.
I bought the car used, any idea if the warrant will cover the power steering pump? If not, what can I do? Any help!