Hi All, all of a sudden P/S in my 58k XK8 started acting up. Seems to stick on center line. Also seems to be speed sensitive. Almost not noticed at lower speeds, < 30mph. Fluid seems ok. Still drained a little added new. Checked suspension wheels off ground and I do not notice any binding. Suspension components are ok. I am not familiar with this type rack. Is it partial electric? Speed sensitive? If so how is it controlled? I am guessing it could be the rack going bad. Just want to make sure that their is no alternatives. thank you. Rich

 

The steering effort is speed sensitive. A Control module receives a pulsed speed signal from the instrument cluster.

The module outputs a variable voltage signal to a solenoid on the Steering Rack.

At parking speeds steering effort is minimal (high boost) increasing to more effort (low boost) required at highway speeds.

Change should be smooth. Solenoid on Steering Rack might be "sticky" or Control Module may be be malfunctioning.

The control module does NOT generate a error signal to the dash display.

 

Thank you Paul, would you know if I were to disconnect the rack sensor wire could this point to either the module or the solenoid. I am hearing a buzzing sound coming from the steering column when a 90 degree left turn is attempted. In addition, is the module located in the steering column. Thank you Rich.

 

The Control Module is located to the right of the Glove Compartment. You must remove the Glove Compartment Door for access.

Unplugging the Module will remove voltage from the Rack Solenoid and force Low Boost at all speeds (Harder Steering).

 

Thank you Paul. vey helpful info. Rich

 

Here are some TSBs that no one seems to be able to find in the 'stickies' area.

bob

 

Looks like I'm facing a swinging problem just like reb1999 describes in the 1st post above.

I checked the TSBs Bob posted, na to this issue. There does not seem to be anything in the stickies about this.

Does anyone have a list of what and where i should look to test this variable power steering relay? I know the controller is behind glove box, but I hope to find a bad connection or something that might be causing hard steering feels like she sticks in center above 40mph.

In case it's pertanent, last week I fought this problem at all speeds, with a clunk at idle when changing direction of wheel. This cleared by reseating the VAPS variable assist power steering fuse.

Now only a problem above 35 or 40mph. Feels like I'm fighting (yes exageration) to keep her straight. Better said: power steering may be 100% disabled at these speeds and above.

It just makes it less comfortable to drive, so I'd like to start to troubleshoot it.

Any ideas or experience?

Thanks, John

 

Hi John, I was fortunate as my 99 did not need any repair. I neglected to state in my post July 2016 was that I had replace the battery in the time frame of my steering problem. I took precautions to use a jump box on the cables when replacing the battery to prevent memory issues. In addition, some time had gone by before driving my XK8 again. I did not connect the two at the time.
My repair. I boosted the air pressure in my front tires to max to reduce the symptoms, drove the car for 100 + miles the next couple of weeks and the steering seemed to reset itself. All fine ever since. Strange cars. Hope you too get lucky. REB

 

Thanks Rich , glad you got it sorted out. You described it perfectly in your 1st post.

I'm encountering a swinging issue same thing. Looks like there is not much photo or step by step info on diagnosing.

One TSB describes the need to monitor pwr steering fluid pressure. 2 others are centered on noises.

If love to get eyes on this relay but not sure where to look. Bob mentioned the filter screen can get clogged, wonder where that is too.

Originally this problem was at all speeds and idle, now intermittent at Abi e 35 or 40 mph.

Thanks, John