Noisy steering

[C.J.]

I'm on the verge of purchasing an X reg Xantia Hdi forte with 98k on it. Checked everything that I can think of, and the only possible question mark is the noise from the steering. Loud squishing noise when I turn the wheel.
I know it's hydraulically operated, but is the noise emitting from it normal?

[CitroJim]

Hi Colin,

Great to see you have access to the forum now Can you please let me know what the final solution was please.

A swooshing noise as you approach full-lock is quite normal. Some do and some don't

If it is happening at all points, I'd say not a problem, the hydraulic system just needs a good bout of "Citarobics" and a good service to bleed out any entrained air; it'll be air making the noise I would have thought.

Have a look at the LHM. If it is not bright green, it's time it was changed, filters cleaned and the system given a good dose of Hydraflush and the filters cleaning.

Have a look in the LHM reservoir with the engine running and see if the returning LHM is really frothy. If it is, you are drawing air on the suction side of the pump due to a perished pipe.

Finally, one or more spheres may be ruptured, leaking nitrogen gas in the system. How do the brakes and suspension feel generally?

In any case, nothing serious at all really. If the rest of the car is good, it should not be a show-stopper.

[C.J.]

Hi Colin,

Great to see you have access to the forum now Can you please let me know what the final solution was please.

A swooshing noise as you approach full-lock is quite normal. Some do and some don't

If it is happening at all points, I'd say not a problem, the hydraulic system just needs a good bout of "Citarobics" and a good service to bleed out any entrained air; it'll be air making the noise I would have thought.

Have a look at the LHM. If it is not bright green, it's time it was changed, filters cleaned and the system given a good dose of Hydraflush and the filters cleaning.

Have a look in the LHM reservoir with the engine running and see if the returning LHM is really frothy. If it is, you are drawing air on the suction side of the pump due to a perished pipe.

Finally, one or more spheres may be ruptured, leaking nitrogen gas in the system. How do the brakes and suspension feel generally?

In any case, nothing serious at all really. If the rest of the car is good, it should not be a show-stopper.

Thanks Jim. Had to use internet explorer to gain access.
Trouble is I'm pretty dim on I.T. related matters, but I have to admit that I've been doing some fiddling of the settings in here, thinking I could possibly improve things.
A cast iron case of 'if it's not broke, DON'T fix it'

Getting back to more pleasant matters, the car. 8)

The steering 'swooshes' as soon as the wheel is turned tbh, not just on full lock.
I'll do the checks you recommend anyway.

Can't really fault the car though tbh. Drives superbly, responsive, smooth, spotless inside, with all original stickers under the bonnet and on the glass.No apparent fluid leaks either.
The servicing has alledgedly been done, only there is no actual documentation after 48k, apart from an invoice for a new 'cat' and discs at 88k. Cam belt alledgedly changed at 88k

[C.J.]

Fantastic. It's been sold to a taxi driver.
No disrespect to any taxi drivers, but what a waste of such a nice clean unmolested and original looking car.

Never mind, plenty more out there. Didn't like the colour anyway.

[Mandrake]

A bit of gentle swooshing/hissing when turning the steering is normal - mine does it when turning left, especially if the wheels are stationary thus causing additional load on the steering.

Nothing to worry about if the steering feels fine.

Regards,
Simon