Noisy C5 power steering

This is the Forum for all your Citroen Technical Questions, Problems or Advice.
pie eater
Posts: 27
Joined: 28 Aug 2005, 19:41

Noisy C5 power steering

Unread post by pie eater »

Now that we've got some cold weather, the power steering pump on my C5 2.2HDI is very noisy when the car is started from cold, from about 1 degree it is noticable, and when it's colder it seems to be noisier. This is at idle with the steering centred, noise rises with revs and gets noisier when the pump is under load.

This lasts until the engine warms up, and then is fine - no noise whatsoever. Also, when starting from cold with the outside temp above say 2 or 3 degrees, there is no noise at all, and when starting the car with a warm engine, it is fine.

Is this a common trait? I think the steering and brakes are independent of the suspension on the C5, and I haven't had the same symptoms with other "conventional" power steered cars that I've owned, or the Xantia's I've had.

The car is 3 years old with 48k, full Citroen service history. It is under Citroen approved used warranty, so if there is a problem I will take it back to the main stealer. But then the car will be warm, the steering will be quiet and I will get the "there's nothing wrong with it, sir" standard reply, won't I :x :x

Otherwise the car continues to impress, feels much bigger inside than my wife's Xantia, the ride is excellent, seats very comfortable with the armrests, and it really is fast when required - though I prefer to set the cruise at 60/65mph on my commute to work and marvel at the fuel economy :D
C5 2.2HDI Exclusive
Xantia 2.0HDI SX
Eunos Roadster (I'm sure theres enough room under the bonnet for that HDI)
Top
bencowell
Posts: 507
Joined: 20 Oct 2002, 13:47
x 1

Unread post by bencowell »

I'd check the suspension fluid level. The steering and suspension share the fluid. REMEMBER IT IS LDS NOT LHM OR DEXTRON!

My C5 needed topping up after various leaks and sphere changes. I moved the car to the lowest position, disconnected the battery, left it overnight (didn't need to use the car, but I guess an hour would be plenty), removed the black plastic cover over the suspension pump and reservoir, loosened the header tank cap with a rag (like you would do a hot radiator) and it took nearly a litre and would probably take a bit more still.

It may be psychological, but the ride felt smoother afterwards and the steering quieter.
Top

Return to “Citroën”