Clio Power Steering

Mike C · Unread post by **Mike C** » 15 Jul 2008, 08:12

Hi,

The power steering on my 2001 1.2 16v Clio (98 to 01 model) has stopped working and the engine management light has come on.

I have checked the fluid and it is full (Very full, is this normal?).

Are there any obvious checks I should do before taking it in to the garage?

Thank you for any help or advice you can give.

AndersDK · Unread post by **AndersDK** » 15 Jul 2008, 16:25

Check if the pump drive belt has snapped and is missing

Mike C · Unread post by **Mike C** » 15 Jul 2008, 16:44

The belt is fine.

It connects to loads of stuff on this model.
Rotates fine when the engine is running

AndersDK · Unread post by **AndersDK** » 15 Jul 2008, 16:56

- and the belt tension is fine too ?
(Please stop engine beforehand !)

I'm worried that you have an engine fault light, at the same time a missing power steering.
That indicates a gross fault on the drive belt, as it most likely also drives your alternator which could then set off the management light.

Mike C · Unread post by **Mike C** » 15 Jul 2008, 17:49

The power steering has returned!???
There was a wire that led to underneath the starter motor and the connection was covered in crap. I cleaned it up and I have power steering again. I thought that power steering was mechanical not electrical?
Or do you think the two events are just coincidence?

Belt is fine and tight but the engine light is still on.

Does anyone know anybody in Milton Keynes who can find out why the fault light is on?

AndersDK · Unread post by **AndersDK** » 15 Jul 2008, 20:45

Seems you have 2 separate problems then.

You might have an elecric driven servo assist pump. That woud explain the perfectly topped up reservoir, but no steering assist despite a good belt.
You engine management light will then be a completely separate faut, most likely a dead simple service issue like afailing temp sensor or clogged air intake filter.