Steering

Is there play around the straight-ahead position, has the steering become heavy or do you hear a knock when turning? The cause may be the steering rack, steering column, track rods or the power-assistance system.

At Donkers VAG Parts, you will find genuine used steering parts for hydraulic and electromechanical Audi systems. The parts come from vehicles dismantled in-house. This means information about the donor vehicle, steering system and drivetrain specification is often available.

Steering racks, columns and related parts

Depending on current stock, this category may include:

• hydraulic steering racks;
• electromechanical steering racks;
• steering columns and shafts;
• universal joints;
• track rods and track-rod ends;
• power-steering pumps;
• hydraulic reservoirs and pipes;
• steering control units.

A worn steering rack may cause play, knocking or an uneven steering feel. Hydraulic systems may also show fluid leakage. On electromechanical systems, a fault can trigger a warning message and reduce or remove steering assistance.

The steering rack is not always the cause. Worn joints, track rods, sensors, wiring or a low supply voltage can produce similar symptoms. Check the fault before replacing a larger component.

Hydraulic and electromechanical steering

Older Audi models often use hydraulic power steering. In these systems, a pump and hydraulic fluid provide the assistance.

Many later models use an electromechanical steering rack. The electric motor, sensors and control electronics may form part of the rack assembly. The complete part number, connectors and electronic version must therefore match the vehicle.

Hydraulic and electromechanical racks are not interchangeable. There may also be several versions within the same type of system.

Audi dynamic steering

Some Audi models were supplied with dynamic steering. This system changes the steering ratio according to vehicle speed and driving conditions.

A dynamic steering component cannot normally be replaced directly with a standard version. The steering rack, control electronics and vehicle equipment must be considered together.

Check the vehicle specification and relevant PR codes before ordering.

Coding, calibration and alignment

After fitting an electromechanical steering rack, coding or adaptation may be required. A steering-angle basic setting and calibration may also be needed.

Wheel alignment should be checked after replacing a steering rack, track rod or another component that affects the wheel position.

Incorrect alignment can result in an off-centre steering wheel, uneven tyre wear or unstable handling.

Finding the correct steering part

Before ordering, check:

• the complete Audi part number, including the suffix;
• left- or right-hand-drive specification;
• hydraulic or electromechanical assistance;
• front-wheel drive or quattro;
• standard or dynamic steering;
• connectors and electrical connections;
• hardware and software version where relevant;
• mounting position.

A steering rack may look identical while using a different ratio, control system or vehicle assignment. Do not rely on appearance alone.

Looking for a steering rack, column, power-steering pump or another steering part for your Audi? Start by comparing the complete part number and vehicle specification. If you are unsure, send us the vehicle identification number and details from the existing part. We can then check which version may be suitable for your vehicle.