If you own a Volkswagen and are experiencing difficulty with the steering, you are not alone. Many VW owners have reported that their steering feels stiff or hard to turn, which can be frustrating and even dangerous. In this article, we will explore some of the common causes of VW steering issues and provide some tips on how to address them.
Causes of VW Steering Issues
- Low Power Steering Fluid – One of the most common causes of hard steering in a Volkswagen is low power steering fluid. This can occur due to a leak in the power steering system, or simply due to normal wear and tear. If your VW’s power steering fluid is low, you may notice that the steering feels stiff or difficult to turn.
- Malfunctioning Power Steering Pump – The power steering pump is responsible for providing the hydraulic pressure needed to assist with steering. If the pump is not functioning properly, you may experience hard steering or even complete loss of power steering assistance.
- Faulty Steering Rack – The steering rack is another component that can cause steering issues in a VW. If the rack is worn or damaged, you may notice that the steering feels stiff or that you need to apply extra force to turn the wheel.
- Worn Tie Rods – The tie rods are a critical part of the steering system in any vehicle, including VWs. If the tie rods are worn or damaged, you may notice that the steering feels loose or that the car does not respond to your steering inputs as quickly as it should.
- Faulty Steering Column – The steering column connects the steering wheel to the rest of the steering system. If the column is damaged or not functioning properly, you may experience issues with the steering, including stiffness or difficulty turning.
- Alignment Issues – Finally, misaligned wheels can also cause steering issues in a VW. If the wheels are not aligned properly, you may notice that the steering feels off or that the car pulls to one side.
Tips for Addressing VW Steering Issues
If you are experiencing hard steering in your Volkswagen, there are several things you can do to address the issue. Here are a few tips to get you started:
- Check the Power Steering Fluid – The first thing you should do if you notice that your VW’s steering feels stiff is to check the power steering fluid. If the fluid is low, add more to bring it up to the proper level. If you notice that the fluid is consistently low, you may have a leak in the power steering system that needs to be addressed.
- Inspect the Power Steering Pump – If the power steering fluid level is fine, the next thing to check is the power steering pump. Look for any signs of damage or wear, and listen for any unusual noises when you turn the steering wheel. If you suspect that the pump is not functioning properly, have it inspected by one of our qualified mechanics.
- Check the Steering Rack and Tie Rods – If the power steering pump is fine, the next step is to inspect the steering rack and tie rods. Look for any signs of wear or damage, and have these components replaced if necessary.
- Have the Steering Column Inspected – If the steering rack and tie rods are fine, the next thing to check is the steering column. This component is more difficult to inspect, so it’s best to have our mechanics look at it to determine if there are any issues.
- Get a Wheel Alignment – Finally, if none of the above steps have resolved the steering issue, it may be time to get a wheel alignment. This will ensure that your wheels are properly aligned and that your VW is driving straight and true.
Book An Appointment With Dart Auto Today
If you’re in the Denver area and are in need 
of a Volkswagen steering repair, look no further than Dart Auto. Our expert technicians are highly trained and equipped to handle any steering issue your VW may be experiencing. From power steering fluid leaks to worn-out steering racks, our team has the experience and skill to get your VW back on the road in no time.
Book an appointment with us today to ensure a safe and smooth driving experience. We proudly serve customers from Englewood, Littleton, and Centennial. Here at Dart Auto, we prioritize quality and customer satisfaction, so you can feel confident that your VW is in good hands.
