[sengih]

Hi, I have a punto nouva year 2000 bought 2nd hand about 4 months ago and
the steering is acting up on me. Twice this week, the steering light on
the console lights up during driving. Thus, steering became heavy. The
day after, it was ok again.

Today, the light comes out again, and steering heavy. Any thoughts?

[mao]

sengih,
Heavy steering can be due to:
1. Insufficient power steering fluid because of leaking
2. Belting for the steering pump being loose
3. Rack and pinion damage.
4. Faulty power steering pump.
Please check this with your mechanic.

[sengih]

If I am not mistaken, after reading the manual, my punto has electric
steering. Not sure if it has steering fluid and pump...

However, the steering is back to OK again for the past 3 days. Touch wood!

[mao]

sengih,
Electric power steering has no hydraulic fluid. The steering is assisted
by an electric motor. Just like hydraulic power steering, the assisted
power is reduced as the car speed increases.
In your sengih, I think the problem is with the motor. You need to see a
reliable fiat mechanic and discuss your problem. Most likely its the
servo system that control the variables ( control amount of assisted
needed - the faster the car the less the electric motor assist)

[sengih]

mao, thanks. so far, the steering light has not light up again, so
steering is okay. I am just worried if it lights up when i'm driving fast
and has to brake and corner at the same time, only to discover that the
steering is too heavy...

[bobchoo]

hi..

you're from penang? :)

[sengih]

I've worked in penang for many many years in the 90s. Now in KL.

Anyway, the steering got heavy again today... I'm going to send the car
to the workshop soon. However, I don't want to get conned, therefore,
need a little bit info on how this Punto electrical steering works. Any
ideas?

[mao]

No harm if you go to Torino or any good mechanic and enquire about:
1) Ask them what's wrong with the steering system
2) What parts most likely to replaced
3) How much will it cost
4) How long will it take to repair
5) Ask them if secondhand parts can be used to rectify the condition
( Some secondhand parts are worth buying. I replaced my alternator with a
secondhand BMW alternator for my Fiat Ulysse, and it works fine )
This question will help you to get the best price around and estimate
your budget. I suggest you do some survey. Read also some technical
information about electrical power steering

[sengih]

Finally! The steering had been fixed! Went to a workshop in Bangi and they replaced the steering motor for RM900. Don't have to spend RM1800++ if fixed at Torino as they suggested to change the whole sterring rack!

Now, can drive in peace...

[GURJIT]

May I know after how long of ownership the motor went kaput?