Skoda’s littlest car uses a hydraulic power steering pump, and these are made to last but can start to fail giving you a few warning signs before it all fails.
Whining Noise on Full Lock
When full lock is applied to the steering wheel a high pitched whine sound is emitted. The sound is produced by a worn steering pump. When full lock is applied to the steering wheel the hydraulic pump is under a lot of load. The worn steering pump is unable to produce enough pressure to provide assistance to the driver.
Stiff Steering at Low Speeds
Hydraulic power steering is most noticeable when you’re slowly maneuvering round a parking place, so a failing steering pump will reveal itself in car parks. A failing steering pump will give the wheel a very heavy feeling, but this will ease off as soon as you’re driving at a higher speed.
Fluid Loss Around the Pump
Leaks from the deteriorating Skoda Fabia steering pump are common and can be determined by a slight oily weep or low steering pump fluid in the reservoir. Be aware that running your vehicle with low steering pump fluid will increase wear on the pump, potentially causing more damage.
Intermittent Loss of Assistance
If power steering cuts in and out unpredictably, the pump is likely struggling to hold consistent pressure. This can feel alarming mid-manoeuvre and tends to worsen in cold weather before the fluid warms up.
Belt or Pulley Wear
Slipping or worn belts can cause noisy squealing. Make sure to check for signs of wear such as cracking and also to check the pulley for excessive play and wobble.
For the Skoda Fabia Steering Pump, see https://westernpowersteering.co.uk/vehicles/skoda/skoda-fabia-steering-pump-2000-2015/.
Catching these early warning signs can save you from an expensive repair.
