Steering issue-UPDATED

[telboy]

I have a 6 month old ed30 that has started to get this grinding noise when turning steering wheel lock to lock at low speeds, although seems to go away the more mileage I do.

I have read with interest the steering rack issue and note some comments that it might not have been the rack at fault and that it only affected early cars???

I seem to have the issue with mine and it's a 2008 model!!!!

Does anyone know if there's a fix for this yet or is this going to be another one moment its here the next its not scenario?

I must admit though, I've been off this week and the car hasn't been driven as much, normally do about 600 miles a week compared to about 150 so far this week, perhaps this has something to do with it?

Do I really have to phone the stealers?

[Phil mcavity]

yes

new rack under warranty

[JonnyG]

I've noticed this occasionally on mine too recently  (also 6 month old ED30)

I can only hear it very slightly in the multistorey when applyng lots of lock quickly  .. more of a slight, constant  "scraping" noise.   

It's not very noticebale and it is'nt getting any worse

Think I'll wait for the 1st service and see what dealer says then 

[Sweeney]

I actually noticed a grinding noise whilst parking earlier in the week... mines is only 3 months old and 1800miles...

hmmm "paranoia sets in"

[JonnyG]

hmmm "paranoia sets in"

I think you're right       if I was'nt aware of the steering rack issue I probably would'nt give it a second thought

Mine sounds very similar to how a brake disc sounds the first time you brake after washing the car ?

Is that what yours sounds like ?

[telboy]

hmmm "paranoia sets in"

I think you're right       if I was'nt aware of the steering rack issue I probably would'nt give it a second thought

Mine sounds very similar to how a brake disc sounds the first time you brake after washing the car ?

Is that what yours sounds like ?

Pretty much although mine does sound creaky when you turn the steeering wheel slowly while stationery??

My only issue with the stealers is the amount of time they might need the car for and after reading some members stating that their steering rack noise was still there after being replaced, makes you think it might not even be that???

I am just loathed to let the stealers make money out of my car through the warranty ultimately at my expense because I won't have my car for a couple of days, does that make sense?

[Sweeney]

Yes exactly like it! I was thinking its maybe something lose/rattling (ie the brake dust cover thing that sits behind the discs etc), the brakes were certainly very very clean and warm i can assure you

I have tried to make it do it again but its intermittent.

I dont see it being too much of a problem, if it annoys me i may make the effort for a dealer visit but id rather not

[Kermit]

Oh dear - even on 2008 models VAG still haven't got their arses in gear and sorted this out    I don't fully understand as racks are being replaced and noises are going away - why is this not in production (if indeed it is a different rack!)

Telboy, I know it's a pain in the arse to get it into the dealers but think of the money you spent on the ED30 - it should be perfect and there should not be such annoying creaks and scratching noises.  I understand your reluctance about getting the work done - not sure if you have read my previous posts, but just to recap (not wanting to put you off either):

- Told VW it was the steering rack based on info from this forum and also a friend with MK2 TT who had same noise and Audi replaced rack
- Stealer said it was suspension travel - replaced coils
- Cocked up and ordered wrong coils, car stayed in overnight (probably outside on the forecourt!!!)
- They then decided it was the steering rack (figured this may be because they could get a rack quicker than a set of coils - they never did explain the change of approach - they probably came on this forum  )
- Another full day without GTI once part in - they never rang me so rang at 5pm and they said rack was replaced but it wasn't "playing ball" on the 4 wheel alignment
- Fourth day finally picked it up - noise gone 
- Few days later, noticed my Monza's were all scratched 

So, not sure how reputable your dealer is but best to check they have done steering rack replacement, if so take car down, get them to hear the noise and if they mention suspension parts, go elsewhere because they haven't got a clue.

If you do take it for the rack, inspect your car and get them to agree to the current "state" - highlight any known scratches, especially on the wheels.  Either this or live with it - it annoyed the hell out of me.  I'm trying a different dealer for any future service and warranty work.

[182_blue]

i have to say mine is slightly (stress slightly) noisy, but dont want to leave the car at the dealers tbh !!!, i will live with it, its vcertainly no noisier than the wifes fiesta

ps what happens if you dont get it replaced ?

[Kermit]

Don't know long term effects of not replacing it - I was told it was not dangerous in anyway, just means less people get it fixed and VAG continue cranking out cars with stupid noises    I think the other downside is anyone looking for a Golf and reads forums such as this will probably know about the problem and maybe you will get some bartering hassle when privately selling - especially out of warranty.  As I said before I paid a lot of money for my GTI and I don't want the experience dampened by such noises - which is why I'll pursue the stealer on most things I feel are "faults" - saying this I doubt a perfect car will ever be built and there are a few thing you can live with -people just have different annoyance factors