Heavy Power Steering & Wheel Shake = Failed Pump Problem

I had a similar issue with my 2015 Chevy Spark, sounds exactly like what you're describing. Had some experience working on basic car maintenance, but the power steering system was new territory for me. The symptoms matched perfectly, heavy steering wheel, inconsistent power assist, and that annoying shake. Turned out to be a faulty wiring connection to the electric steering system. The workshop found a damaged cable and corroded plug connection that was causing intermittent power steering failures. Total repair cost was 95 Euro, mainly labor for diagnosing and fixing the connection. Much better than replacing the entire steering pump, which I initially feared. What's your mileage and have you noticed any warning lights? Also, does the steering feel heavier at lower speeds? These details would help confirm if you're dealing with the same electrical connection issue I had. The Spark and Beat share similar electric steering components, but before jumping to conclusions, it'd help to know: When did the symptoms first appear? Does it happen more when the engine is cold or warm? Any unusual noises when turning?

Thanks for sharing your experience. My Beat's at 124683 KM from the latest service. The steering issues started getting noticeable about two weeks ago. The steering wheel gets especially heavy during slow-speed maneuvers, like parking. The most concerning part is the inconsistent power assist, sometimes the electric steering works fine, then suddenly gets really heavy mid-turn. Haven't noticed any particular pattern with engine temperature, but there's a slight whining noise when turning the wheel completely to either side. Hearing about your wiring fix gives me hope it's not the entire steering rack that needs replacement. I'll definitely have them check the electrical connections first. The symptoms do sound quite similar to what you experienced with your Spark's power steering system.

Thanks for those details. After fixing my Spark's wiring issue, I learned quite a bit about electric steering systems through hands-on experience. The symptoms you're describing, especially that whining noise and inconsistent power assist, really match what I dealt with. Quick tip from my repair journey: make sure they check the hydraulic fluid levels and condition before diving into electrical diagnostics. In my case, even though the wiring was the main culprit, we also found slightly degraded hydraulic fluid that was affecting the wheel alignment and overall steering response. The whining noise during full turns is particularly telling, that's exactly what my Spark did before the repair. The wheel alignment was also slightly off due to the system's inconsistent power assist. After the fix, both issues disappeared completely. Given your mileage and the sudden onset of symptoms, I'd bet you're dealing with a similar electrical connection problem. The pressure hose and main steering components were perfectly fine in my case, it was just that pesky wiring causing all the drama. Since these cars share similar electric steering setups, you might save quite a bit by having them focus on the electrical connections first.

The symptoms getting worse during slow-speed maneuvers definitely matches what others have experienced. I'll make sure to have the shop thoroughly check the electrical connections in the power steering system first, based on your feedback. Really helpful to know the whining noise during full turns might also be related to the wiring rather than mechanical failure. Going to schedule an appointment to have them inspect the pressure hose, fluid levels, and especially those electrical connections you mentioned. Will also ask about checking the wheel alignment since you noted that was affected by your power steering issues too. Seems like catching this early before any major steering components get damaged is key. Thanks for walking me through your repair experience. Gives me a much better idea of what to expect and potentially save money by having them target the most likely problem areas first. Will update once I get it diagnosed and hopefully fixed.