Power Steering Problem

[Fred Thornton]

Hi Guys,

I've done a quick search but can't find any posts with the same problem, so hopefully someone can help.

My 03 2.0 petrol (ALT) with 205k on the clock has very recently developed a problem with the power steering. It makes a swooshing sound when you try to turn left and the power steering does not assist at all, especially noticeable at low speed. It works perfectly well when turning right.

The fluid level is good and it had a new rack only last year. About 60k ago the pump was inspected with a boroscope as I was experiencing a problem with the ABS, which turned out to be electronic, something to do with the MultiTronic ECU that was changed at that time.

I've not had any collisions either so am mightily confused as to why the problem is only experienced when turning left?

One last note, the offside front tyre has worn quite a bit more on the outside than it's counterpart on the near side.

Any help would be greatly appreciated.