Power Steering squeal

[quattrokid1]

Hi Folks,

a quick question if I may please: with a 2000 model RS4 when turning the steering wheel in reverse to maximum travel/lock, from the outside it "squeals"! this may not be the best word to describe it. I was wondering does the p/s have a belt driving the pump? I thought because its a hydraulic circiut, if/when you reach the buffers the oil has to go somewhere from the pump so there would be an alternative route for the oil to go until the maximum lock is brought back into its travel perameters if you know what I mean?

could the p/s fluid be low? if so wouldnt it make this noise all the time when driving normaly? The steering is still one finger light, is there anyone near Ayrshire that could meet up after this coming week to listen and suggest a possible cause?

T.V.M in advance. The last time I heard this noise was on an old Jag!! also when reversing apparently the RS4 gearbox does make an unnerving rumble? Audi technician said it was common on these cars.?

[RS4Kev]

Mine does exactly the same on both counts. Doesn't mean that it should though so i hope no one else posts to say they're both about to fail......

[shineydave]

all the S4's do it, it's normal

[ZeroK66]

Yeah perfectly normal, only time for concern is if it does it all the way through - which mind does ever so slightly. I have replaced my pump but it still does it. Seems could be the rack... only does it when cold and manovering when stationary, so I am not worried

[Desmo]

I had the same problem on my 2001 RS4. When it got really bad, my dealer replaced the steering pump under warranty, but twelve months later its back again (fortunately the part carries a 2 yr manufacturers warranty), so I expect they'll consider changing it again. I can't see how this can be considered "normal". You wouldn't accept 'squealing' from a new or used showroom car. Mine only started doing it after about 40k miles. I'd like to know what the root cause is, perhaps the standard part is not heavy duty enough for the job?

[quattrokid1]

ok at least I am not alone then:) thanks for your responses gents... whether this is a good thing or not I dont know!! from the inside I didnt hear it but people outside turned round to see what the noise was!! if its "ok" then so be it!!

[MEPS]

Mine did exactly the same the pump was changed and it is doing it againd I will get it replaced again under warranty.

[ZeroK66]

Guys... squeeling on full lock is perfectly normal. Squeeling during manoovering is a problem.

I had my pump replaced and my car still does it. Someone has suggested it may be the pressure release valve opening too soon - this is located in the rack rather than the pump.