power steering

[zollaf]

i have a 2000 sdi in for a timing belt. owner reports power steering not always working. rac diagnosed a faulty pump. they are electronic, so thats always a possibility. started it up, pas light stays on, no pas, then after a few seconds goes off, pas doesn't feel right. a new pump from vag is £800 ish, so we remove the battery and tray to check the level. after just over 1/2 litre goes in to get it to level, we are hoping its a quick and cheap fix.
due to its position and the work required to check the level, its often overlooked, especially when the resevoir isn't that obvious. its an electric pump concealed in the passenger side wing.

[spud43]

battery is common fault, also see how much lights dim when turning steering. Other think is the battery sence wire from alternator fails thus dosent charge battery at correct weight.
The ehps on this cars will not work unless an amp level is met by alt to power pump.

[boustie]

pull the wiring plug off the pump you may find its gone all green and furry.

[Doctle Odd]

Is there room for a belt driven pump? It would be much cheaper, I'd imagine cost under a ton