Intermittent loss of power steering......

**1ctchris** · 4th May 2011, 09:29

2006 1.8 Vectra
My wife has been having an intermittent loss of power steering, normally when manouvring the car at los speeds with full lock on - before I get the haynes manual out and try to solve it myself, is this common and does anyone know how to troubleshoot the problem efficiently, for example a list of things to check?

Thanks in advance

**doilum2003** · 7th May 2011, 07:56

Think this could be a sign the alternator is on the way mate. Mine was displaying similar symptoms.

**Jow20** · 7th May 2011, 08:25

I had simalar synptoms and it was the power steering rack. On my 1.8. They have electronic power steering. Thankfully for me i got it done under warrenty. But heard it was quite a big bill and almost 2 days before got the car back! So fingers crossed its not that m8!

**Big Sig** · 7th May 2011, 08:39

Could also just be low fluid.

**doilum2003** · 7th May 2011, 12:01

My mate's steering rack went too. Check your track rod ends for fluid as the seals go under the rubber gaitors at the end of the rack and it leaks out from there. Was a swine of a job

**alcutler** · 7th May 2011, 14:07

Alternator or battery favorite!!

**1ctchris** · 8th May 2011, 13:45

Thanks for all the suggestions - when I get a chance to try and check these things out I will let you all know what I find.

**scott_vectra** · 16th May 2011, 18:50

You could try this....

http://www.vectra-c.com/forum/showthread.php?t=135030

**adriano872** · 17th May 2011, 10:20

I don't think is the alternator. When u have a faulty alternator, the battery dies in max 15 minutes. I'll go 4 low fluid level or steering fault. The steering is hydraulic and if the fluid is not at the level, it should work very hard..be careful, u could hurt the hydraulic steering pump.