Steering wheel tightening problem

[silvertze]

So we just had a big snowfall and I'm glad and all, however my car doesnt seem to like it.....I think. Is it normal that my steering wheel is firmer? It loosens up whenever the wheels are spinning, however when im stopped its as if there is no power steering. Is that normal?

[Stone825]

Well if your wheels are buried in snow the wheel may not turn as well. Not sure what you mean by big snowfall. I'm guessing when you are hitting the gas and turning the wheel the moving wheel is digging into the snow kind of pushing it away and making it easier to turn your steering wheel.

If youre not in snow it could always been your power steering fluid but I don't know about that one.

[silvertze]

I only mentioned the snowfall because I thought i might be some sort of audi factory thing where the steering becomes firmer to avoid problems. The thing is now, even on plowed streets, its unresposive when the car is standing still, for example, waiting at a red light. However as soon as im driving i have complete control.

[Wanted]

I would pull into a gas station or carwash that has no snow under the canopy and see what the resistance is when you turn the wheel. A couple things could be going on:
1) Power steering fluid could be contaminated with moisture and the weather is effecting it
2) you could have slush and frozen goo built up behind your wheels and it's interfering with your tie rod assembly
3) the amount of snow could be putting undue pressure

Do a visual check on the fluid and the components and get back to us and we can help from there.

Good luck with it.

Matt

[silvertze]

So ive checked all my fluids, ive even gone through a car wash to wash off the snow. Point being it its unbelievebly tight to steer, its as if I have no power steering when the car isnt moving. Ive even put winter tires on yesterday but I dont think it has anything to do with the tires. Is there a motor for power steering? any fuses i should sheck...i dont have any warranty so im trying to avoid a big repair bill. Thanks in advance

[silvertze]

anybody?

[silvertze]

So i talked to a mechanic friend of mine he said it could be the buschings?
Does that sound likely...is that expensive?