Hello,

I noticed that my power steering fluid was low so I filled it up and now I can't turn my wheel at all. What did I do wrong? I really don't want to have my car towed.

Any amount of information will really help. I haven't been able to find anything on this problem on the web.

Thank you.

 

helps to know what year and model we are talking about.

what kind (brand/grade) of power steering fluid did you use? it's possible you mixed two incompatible types of fluid which could lead to problems.

 

of course! sorry, i am new here. Its a 2003 a4 1.8t quattro.

I put in pentosin CHF 7.1. I was worried about mixing the fluids so I emptied the tank with a turkey baster ( a friend told me to do that?) The wheel will turn only a tiny bit so I was able to angle it back to a parking spot on the street.

 

sounds like you may have gotten some air in the PS sytem. first check to make sure you refilled the reservoir to the proper level. then with the cap of the fluid reservoir and look for bubbles (have an assistant turn the wheel while you look). if you see bubbles you are going to have to try to work the air through the system. You need to get both front wheels up off the ground (jack stands). with the front of the car up and level, turn the steering wheel from lock to lock about 10 times or so.

also listen for "funny" noises coming from the power steering pump. it is near the middle top front of the engine.

-good luck