urs6_ma

When I first start my car after it sitting all day at work, the power steering seems strongly boosted to the right. Turning the wheel left feels normal, to the right feels *very* light.

Anybody else run across this?

Is this normal, or what...

donp

Could be that or some other mechanical failure. Not a good sign either way.

GeoW97

...it generally goes away after even 3 or 4 minutes. I had the fluid changed a couple months ago, so whatever it is, I doubt it's that. I've never thought of it as anything serious, just one of those things...

LuvnhatemyA6

I see a new steering rack in your future!

paulroad

the oil thins as it gets warm and flows through it easier.

BernieBenz

Any double acting hydraulic cylinder, is biased to one side because of the differing active CSAs, rod end vs. head end. Thus, under conditions of limited available fluid flow, cold idle, the larger CSA head end is first to be starved for fluid with resultant little or no boost pressure. Lower pump volumetric efficiency at cold idle conditions is the principle culprit in this experience. Up your cold idle speed to eliminate the condition. DFI if IAB!

LuvnhatemyA6

First thing to try would be a fluid change.

BernieBenz

blocked filter screen in the reservoir could be starving the pump causing cavitation and restricting pump output flow.

LuvnhatemyA6

it is not beyond the realm of possibility that this is due to old/dirty/water contaminated fluid. Clean the screen at the same time of course.

Experienced not quite the same fault on a Citroen (steering was just stiff when cold) and the fix was a fluid flush.

johnkk

Will do it for a couple of minutes even at 2500rpm.

No 605 relay right?

My 01 has done this since winter one. Annual fluid changes no cure. I live with it, but wish I could find a cure.

I've a hunch that the pintle valve seal takes a bit to warm up and seal properly.