The power steering pump of the Audi A2 scores poorly on reliability and often makes unnecessary noise. This results in reduced steerability, less comfort and more frequent repairs. Owners of older A2 models in particular will recognise this problem. But what makes this pump so troublesome and what solutions are there?
Why does the A2’s power steering make so much noise?
Noisy power steering is a very common complaint with the Audi A2. The cause usually lies in the hydraulic pump that is working constantly under pressure. With this pump, squeaking or knocking noises occur due to several factors.
- The fluid in the reservoir gets too low, causing the pump to draw in air
- The drive belt is worn or not tensioned tightly enough
- The hydraulic system contains air due to small leaks in hoses
- The fluid has become dirty and is less effective
The pump is especially loud in cold weather. The hydraulic fluid is then thicker and flows less easily. Under full load, for example when parking, you often hear a high-pitched squealing sound. The pump is then working at maximum capacity. This is what makes the wheels turn.
‘ The limited capacity also shortens the service life of internal components such as the rotating parts and seals. ’
The weak link in the steering system
The A2’s power steering pump is smaller and less powerful than in comparable models. Audi designed this compact version to save weight and to support the car’s aluminium construction. The downside: as a result, the pump often operates at the limit of its capacity.
At low engine speeds the pump does not deliver enough pressure. This makes the steering feel heavier during slow manoeuvring. Many owners notice this especially when parking on inclines or in fully loaded cars. The limited capacity also shortens the service life of internal components such as the rotating parts and seals.
Some models already suffer from noticeable wear after 80,000 kilometres. The pump always turns along with the engine, even when you are driving straight ahead and do not need any assistance. This constant load accelerates wear significantly.
Symptoms you should not ignore
Power steering problems on the A2 show up in several ways. If you recognise these signs, it is time to take action:
- The steering feels heavy, especially when driving slowly or at a standstill
- You hear squeaking or knocking noises when turning the steering wheel
- The steering feel varies: sometimes light, then heavy again
- Fluid drips under the car, often green or yellow in colour
- The steering wheel vibrates or rattles while driving
These issues develop gradually. Many owners get used to the heavier steering and only realise later how big the difference is. Do not wait too long before intervening. A defective power steering system not only increases physical strain, but also the risk of unsafe situations in traffic.
Hydraulic power steering needs maintenance
The A2 uses a hydraulic system with a pump. The engine drives this pump via a belt. The pump builds up pressure in a fluid. The fluid flows through hoses to the steering rack. The steering gear contains a valve. This valve directs the pressure to one side of a piston. This is what makes the wheels turn.
This system works effectively, but it has drawbacks. The pump always turns along, even if you are not making any steering movements. This increases fuel consumption and puts continuous load on the engine. In addition, the hydraulic fluid can leak from worn hoses or connections.
That is why you should check the fluid level in the reservoir regularly. Do this with a cold engine that is switched off. Top up with the correct specification, usually ATF or special power steering fluid. Replace the fluid every 50,000 to 80,000 kilometres to prevent contamination and blockages.
‘ Regular maintenance prevents expensive repairs. ’
Costs of power steering repair
The costs vary, depending on what has failed. A new power steering pump for the A2 costs between 300 and 600 euros, excluding labour. Add another 150 to 300 euros for fitting and bleeding the system.
For smaller issues you will often stay within 100 to 200 euros. Think of replacing hoses, topping up and bleeding the fluid, or tensioning the drive belt. A complete overhaul of the steering rack can run up to 800 euros or more.
Regular maintenance prevents expensive repairs. Have the system checked annually and top up the fluid in good time. Small investments in prevention will ultimately save you major costs. Some owners opt for an overhaul of the pump at high mileage, which extends its service life and costs around 400 euros.
Practical tips for owners
There is a lot you can pick up yourself before problems become serious. Listen carefully for noises while steering. Does it squeal mainly under full load? Then check the belt tension and fluid level. Does it knock when parking? See whether there are leaks or air in the system.
Bleeding the hydraulic system: start the engine and repeatedly turn the steering wheel from lock to lock. This helps to work air bubbles out of the system. Meanwhile, top up the fluid if the level drops.
Many owners report that problems occur particularly after winter storage. Park the car on a slope so that leaks are easier to spot. After a long period of inactivity, always check the fluid level before driving.
If problems persist, have a diagnosis carried out. A specialist can measure the pressure in the system and determine whether the pump, hoses or steering rack are defective. Never force the steering when it is heavy. This not only wears the tyres, but also damages the rack and other components.
Alternative solutions
Some owners consider an upgrade to electric power steering. This system works with an electric motor instead of a hydraulic pump. The advantages: no constant energy loss, less maintenance and no risk of leaks.
Such a conversion costs between 1,000 and 1,500 euros and requires bespoke work. Not all garages offer this option. Discuss with a specialist workshop whether this is feasible for your A2.
Another option is to fit a reconditioned pump or a second-hand unit from a younger model. This lowers the costs considerably, but offers less certainty about service life.
On the Carnews website you will find more information about common problems with different car brands, maintenance tips and practical repair advice. Discover how to get more out of your car and which warning signs you must not ignore.
Frequently asked questions
You can recognise failing power steering by the steering suddenly becoming (much) heavier, especially at low speeds or when parking. You will often also hear squeaking, whining or knocking noises when steering, for example due to a worn belt, pump or air in the system. In hydraulic systems you may also see leaking or heavily discoloured power steering fluid (or wet patches under the car). With electric power steering a warning light will usually come on and the electrical assistance will partially or completely fail.
The most common causes of power steering problems are a low fluid level or leakage in the hydraulic system, and a defective power steering pump or drive belt. Aged or contaminated power steering fluid can also cause heavy or jerky steering movements. In addition, wear or defects in the steering rack, valves or torsion bar are common. With electric power steering, faults in sensors, the electric motor, wiring or ECU are frequent causes.
You can carry out basic checks yourself, such as checking and topping up power steering fluid, inspecting for leaks and listening for unusual noises while steering. On hydraulic systems you can sometimes also help to purge air from the system by, with the engine running, gently turning from lock to lock. For electric power steering you can read fault codes with an OBD scanner and check the battery/voltage. Complex problems with the pump, steering rack, sensors or electronics should be left to a specialist, because incorrect work can seriously compromise safety.
No, it is not safe to keep driving when your power steering fails, because steering then becomes much heavier and you have less control, especially at low speeds or in emergencies. Try to steer calmly to a safe place at the side of the road and stop there. Preferably do not drive any further until the system has been checked and repaired.
Hydraulic power steering uses a pump driven mechanically by the engine and hydraulic fluid to apply pressure to the steering rack, whereas electric power steering works with an electric motor and sensors that, via an ECU, provide the required amount of assistance. In hydraulic systems, faults often show up as leaks, low fluid level, squeaking or knocking noises and suddenly much heavier steering, especially at low speeds or in cold weather. With electric power steering you are more likely to see warning lights on the dashboard, fault codes in the ECU, loss of or fluctuating steering assistance and sometimes an immediately noticeable change to fully heavy, “unassisted” steering. Hydraulic problems are usually mechanical/fluid-related, while EPS faults are more often in the electronics, sensors, wiring or power supply (battery).