C6 Power Steering Problem
Instructor
Joined: Mar 2012
Posts: 215
Likes: 14
Easiest thing would be to check fluid, check for leaks from the powersteering pump area or check for something as simple as low tire pressure. Can you elaborate on "power steering hard?" It can be hard if you leave it in accessory mode with the engine off.
Thread Starter
Advanced
Joined: Oct 2012
Posts: 53
Likes: 1
From: Oceano California
Thanks, for the reply the Fluid is full, no leaks that I can detect, tire pressure correct. When engine is running and car moving the steering is at about 50% assisted by the power steering system. This started about two weeks ago and doesn't seem to be getting worse, but not getting better either. The DIC shows message SERVICE VEHICLE SOON but my mechanic could not pull any codes. I was in the Dealer's shop this morning and noticed that they will service the power steering for $123, so I may just do that and see if it takes care of the problem .
Race Director
Joined: Dec 2002
Posts: 10,468
Likes: 1,149
From: Wayne Township WI
Dealer wrench will probably find there is a problem.
Since you paid they'll have to say what it is & will cost to repair.
At that time can make a decision, either they do it or take it to a competent shop of your choice.
Racer
Joined: Dec 2018
Posts: 498
Likes: 211
From: Wisconsin
2023 C6 of the Year Finalist - Unmodified
I had a similar problem with my 2013 GS The variable effort steering uses a variety of sencers that report to the EBCM . Mine turned out to be a damaged wire from the steering rack to the EBCM. The heat from the poor connection also damaged the EBCM.I found a used one on EBAY for about $80. Be aware that the early C6 EBCM's Are different
Instructor
Joined: Mar 2020
Posts: 144
Likes: 16
Got a similar problem, but it only rears its ugly head intermittently, while I am backing up, going slowly and while turning the steering wheel (mostly when turning CCW). The steering wheel feels heavy when this happens and it vibrates while also giving me resistance to the steering input. I have 2005 coupe with 53k on the clock. Just recently bought the car used, was thinking I might have a power steering fluid flush performed. Fluid level and fluid color appear OK. Anyone else here know or hear of this issue? Power steering pump going out perhaps? Tire pressures are all 30 PSI, on newer Conti Extremes.
Last edited by klangstone; Mar 6, 2020 at 04:02 PM.
Drifting
Joined: Sep 2014
Posts: 1,924
Likes: 392
From: Atlanta - - - - - Save the manuals
I too had the same problem - 2005 with 55K. So I (for different reasons) replaced the clutch, dropped the engine about 1+ inch so I could loosen the bell housing. I also since I was under there equally adjusted the tie rods since the steering wheel was not straight when the vehicle was going straight (on a non-cambered road). I also removed the upper A arms from the frame and the upper shock mounts so that I could drop the engine.
Ok fast forward. I buttoned it all up. Maybe I changed the caster, camber, toe in, maybe I loosened up the steering who knows, but my steering is noticeably lighter and smooth which means to me means there is a solution somewhere. Of course, I'm assuming the pump, fluid etc. are all up to spec.
Last edited by Dutch08; Mar 6, 2020 at 05:02 PM.
Instructor
Joined: Mar 2020
Posts: 144
Likes: 16
(IDK) This is likely of no help, but I'll post it here anyway and perhaps it will lead somebody to a solution and explain the problems.
I too had the same problem - 2005 with 55K. So I (for different reasons) replaced the clutch, dropped the engine about 1+ inch so I could loosen the bell housing. I also since I was under there equally adjusted the tie rods since the steering wheel was not straight when the vehicle was going straight (on a non-cambered road). I also removed the upper A arms from the frame and the upper shock mounts so that I could drop the engine.
Ok fast forward. I buttoned it all up. Maybe I changed the caster, camber, toe in, maybe I loosened up the steering who knows, but my steering is noticeably lighter and smooth which means to me means there is a solution somewhere. Of course, I'm assuming the pump, fluid etc. are all up to spec.
I too had the same problem - 2005 with 55K. So I (for different reasons) replaced the clutch, dropped the engine about 1+ inch so I could loosen the bell housing. I also since I was under there equally adjusted the tie rods since the steering wheel was not straight when the vehicle was going straight (on a non-cambered road). I also removed the upper A arms from the frame and the upper shock mounts so that I could drop the engine.
Ok fast forward. I buttoned it all up. Maybe I changed the caster, camber, toe in, maybe I loosened up the steering who knows, but my steering is noticeably lighter and smooth which means to me means there is a solution somewhere. Of course, I'm assuming the pump, fluid etc. are all up to spec.
Well I do plan to get the car aligned at some point soon, so maybe that will reveal something when they adjust the suspension.
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