Steering has extra friction spots

[vtraudt]

I have a 2009 and 2010 A4 Avant 2.0T, the 2010 is a new addition, with yet limited driving. But the miles I put on made me notice that the steering seems to have a spot or spots where it seems to 'stick', or extra friction occurs

Power steering fluid level is good, no noise from the PS pump or the rack.

Just feeling additional resistance at some spots or A spot. I will pay more attention as to where it happens, and if it is always at the same spot (i.e. angle of steering wheel).

Any suggestions?

Anyone ever heard of such thing?

[quantum5]

Those early models had issues with some hose that cause a steering wheel judder, think there was a TSB. Maybe something like that?

[silver_tt]

intermediate steering shaft needs to be replaced

[old guy]

Good info in this thread: Clicky click

[Theiceman]

deep creep might help till you get it replaced

[vtraudt]

Those early models had issues with some hose that cause a steering wheel judder, think there was a TSB. Maybe something like that?

no judder. just some mild friction at some spots.

[vtraudt]

Good info in this thread: Clicky click

No Popping sound or snapping.

[vtraudt]

deep creep might help till you get it replaced

What parts would benefit from deep creep? maybe a schematic of the respective parts involved.
Technically not a lubricant AFAIK, so first deep creep and see if it does something, then 'degrease and regrease'?

[vtraudt]

https://www.fcpeuro.com/public/asset...jpg?1706017268

Lube the universals of the steering column? one inside (pedals area or further up towards steering wheel), the other from below?

[old guy]

https://www.fcpeuro.com/public/asset...jpg?1706017268

Lube the universals of the steering column? one inside (pedals area or further up towards steering wheel), the other from below?

Correct. Especially the lower joint.

[Theiceman]

its almost always the lower....

[vtraudt]

Thanks. Will give the lower (less messy) a go.
Clean off first (brake cleaner or similar) then soak in white lithium or silicone lube spray?

Or just soak in WD40 (can't hurt?) for now to see if it makes a difference, then do proper cleaning and lubing?

[Perry01]

its almost always the lower....

Apply Deep Creep liberally to the lower joint. Turn steering wheel a little to expose the other side of the joint and reapply.

[silver_tt]

It doesn't pop or snap. It's your intermediate steering shaft almost for sure. You just get a lot of extra resistance at certain points. I wouldn't mess with trying to lubricate it, just replace the part it isn't hard.

[vtraudt]

Drove the car some more; it had been sitting for a year, and the 'friction' noticed during first 20 miles. Yesterday, could NOT detect the notchy steering feel anymore. Pretty sure the intermediate shaft universals just need a bit more exercise. Alsmot moved the steering wheel up/down and in/out during detailing/cleaning. May have helped as well.

[old guy]

You should still go ahead and spray the lower universal joint. Access is very easy. It is exposed to the elements and only a matter of time before it gets worse.

[vtraudt]

You should still go ahead and spray the lower universal joint. Access is very easy. It is exposed to the elements and only a matter of time before it gets worse.

Yes, will do next time I have it jacked up.