[Biturbos4] B5 S4 steering noise

[Ti Kan]

On Thu, Mar 20, 2014 at 08:55:00AM -0400, John Corbishley wrote:
> Have you checked you PS fluid level?

It's normal.  And why would it matter if the noise happens
even when the engine isn't running?  That would suggest that
it has nothing to do with the power assist (power steering
pump or fluids)... ?

-Ti

> > On Mar 20, 2014, at 6:35, Ti Kan <ti at amb.org> wrote:
> > Hi everyone,
> > 
> > Patient: 2001.5 Audi S4 biturbo, 135K mi.
> > 
> > Symptom: Turning the steering wheel clockwise produces a groan/squeal
> > noise, it sounds like something needs lubrication.  No noise when
> > turning counter-clockwise.
> > 
> > This video shows the problem:
> > https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LwDh4ddz7Pk
> > 
> > Ignore the clicking noise in the video, it's just me trying to turn
> > the wheel and hold the camera at the same time.
> > 
> > The noise occurs with and without the engine running, and with the car
> > moving or stopped.  It isn't very loud, despite seeming that way in
> > the video (the camera mic is very sensitive).  Music from the stereo
> > or road noise at >25mph will mask it.
> > 
> > I first suspected the clockspring, but after removing the airbag and
> > steering wheel, turning the clockspring by hand was smooth and noise-free.
> > I reinstalled the steering wheel and airbag.
> > 
> > What else should I look at?  I know there is a U-joint at the
> > bottom of the column near where it connects to the steering rack,
> > could that U-joint need lubing?  Looks like it would require
> > a contortionist to work there...  Could the steering rack itself
> > be the problem?
> > 
> > -Ti