Driving

Power steering

~1min read

Power steering makes it easier to steer when the engine is running.

It assists the driver so that only a small amount of force is needed to turn the steering wheel.

If the engine is not running, the power steering does not work.

In this case, the steering wheel is difficult to turn.

Turning the steering wheel to full lock while stationary places a heavy load on the power steering. This is noisy. It also causes the engine idle speed to drop.

Warning!


Do not hold the steering at full lock for more than 15 seconds while the engine is running, as this could damage the power steering!


  • If the power steering fails or the engine is off (towing), the vehicle can still be steered. However, more force is required to turn the steering wheel.
  • If the system leaks or is faulty, go to a specialist workshop without delay.
  • The power steering requires a special hydraulic fluid. The reservoir is located in the engine compartment, on the front left side. A correct fluid level in the reservoir is important for the power steering to work properly. The fluid level is checked during scheduled servicing.

Test yourself

A quick Audi A4 quiz: every answer comes with an explanation and a link to the manual page.