Saab Tech Talk (STT)

Workshop for current Saab models => Saab 9-3 Sport Saloon / Convertible / Combi (Wagon/Estate) / Turbo X / AWD (2003 on) => Topic started by: Steve McF on 07 June 2026, 05:20:07 PM

Title: Intermittent power steering issue?
Post by: Steve McF on 07 June 2026, 05:20:07 PM
Well here we go again - whilst the Aero is in the garage patiently waiting for the next available booking at Bagnals to sort the bits mentioned in the other thread, I had to move it out of the garage today to park on the drive. As I was reversing back onto the drive, the steering suddenly became very heavy. As I turned the wheel it got easier again, and then heavy again.

So whilst stopped on the drive, I could turn the wheel half a turn to the right before it became very heavy, and I could turn it about a third of the way round to the left before it became heavy.

There are no fault messages on the SiD, and no warning light on the dash.

So.....could this be something like a knackered steering column UJ rather than a power steering failure?
Title: Re: Intermittent power steering issue?
Post by: sgould on 07 June 2026, 08:06:13 PM
It sounds like a UJ issue.  The usual fault with the power steering is the engine oil leaking into the pump, but that usually causes light steering and is consistent.
Title: Re: Intermittent power steering issue?
Post by: Steve McF on 08 June 2026, 12:58:52 PM
Just looked up the UJ and they're £300+ for a new part  :o

The car is starting to look like a good candidate for breaking!!!!  ::) As my enthusiasm for getting one thing after another fixed is beginning to wane!!!!
Title: Re: Intermittent power steering issue?
Post by: Steve McF on 08 June 2026, 03:01:41 PM
Quote from: Steve McF on Today at 12:58:52 PMJust looked up the UJ and they're £300+ for a new part  :o

The car is starting to look like a good candidate for breaking!!!!  ::) As my enthusiasm for getting one thing after another fixed ad infinitum whilst also not doing many miles is beginning to wane!!!!