Power steering noise - should I be worried?

[gman]

Hi all,

My '96 VR6 is making noise when turning the wheel at low speeds.

I've just noticed this over the last week - could anyone suggest what the problem could be?

Is there some common problem?

Am I to become very broke very shortly?

Thanks in advance!
Gman

[sukebe]

I am curious too. I have a kind of "belt slipping" sound that seems to come from the steering but only sometimes and only on take off, especially when turning (only lasts a second or 2). It hasn't gotten worse since owning the car so I haven't done anything about it.....

[Golfer]

It's not uncommon, and it's not the first time this topic has been raised...

http://www.vwwatercooled.org.au/newforum/upload/showthread.php?t=4842

Change the fluid, make sure you use genuine VW power steering fluid. Don't start stressing yet. I'm actually starting to like my little p/s whine. Sounds kinda like a supercharger if you squint ya ears just right...

John

[runamuk]

Check the belt for wear and look at the tensioner. My belt is all cracked with an old tensioner, thats why it makes a noise.