Experiencing an Audi Steering Malfunction can be unsettling, especially when it impacts your ability to control your vehicle. One Audi SQ5 owner recently shared their concerning experience, highlighting the sudden loss of power steering in their 2018 model. Let’s delve into the details of this issue, potential causes, and what you should do if you encounter a similar problem.
The owner of the SQ5, purchased just weeks prior, initially received a “steering malfunction, you may continue to drive” warning message immediately after leaving the dealership. While they didn’t initially notice any drivability issues, the problem soon escalated. In subsequent drives, particularly after the auto start-stop system engaged in comfort mode, the power steering would intermittently fail. This resulted in a dangerously heavy steering wheel, making turns, especially at low speeds, incredibly difficult. Imagine the strain of trying to maneuver a turn without power steering assist, a situation no driver wants to face, particularly with family in the car.
The steering malfunction wasn’t limited to auto start-stop situations. In another instance, after an ice storm, the owner started their SQ5 in freezing temperatures only to find the power steering completely unresponsive. Multiple restarts failed to resolve the issue, leaving them to muscle the heavy SUV to get their children to school. Later, as temperatures rose, the power steering mysteriously returned to normal.
Seeking answers, the SQ5 owner used an OBD11 scanner, revealing a “Terminal 15 implausible data set” error. Further investigation showed fault codes across multiple controllers, all seemingly related to data bus communication issues and pointing back to Terminal 15. This discovery aligns with known Audi recalls concerning moisture intrusion into data bus controllers, which can trigger various electrical malfunctions.
Fortunately, the dealership, which had provided a 12-month bumper-to-bumper warranty, took the SQ5 in for service and provided a rental vehicle. They are currently investigating the recall and the steering malfunction, working directly with Audi to diagnose and rectify the problem.
This real-world account raises important questions for Audi owners. Is this an isolated incident, or a more widespread issue? Are certain Audi models, like the SQ5, more susceptible to steering malfunctions, especially in cold and damp conditions? The owner’s experience echoes concerns found in online forums, with some reporting steering column replacements and, alarmingly, complete system shutdowns leading to accidents. The thought of losing steering control, especially while driving loved ones, is understandably alarming.
While awaiting a diagnosis, the SQ5 owner hopes for a quick and simple fix. However, gathering information and understanding potential worst-case scenarios is a prudent step for any car owner facing such a critical malfunction. If you experience an audi steering malfunction, it’s crucial to:
- Note the conditions: When does the malfunction occur? (e.g., cold weather, after auto start-stop, during turns).
- Check for warning lights: What messages appear on your dashboard?
- Scan for OBD codes: Use an OBD-II scanner to retrieve any fault codes.
- Contact your Audi dealer immediately: Steering issues are serious safety concerns and require professional diagnosis and repair.
- Inquire about recalls: Check if your vehicle is subject to any relevant recalls that might be related to the steering system or data bus.
While this SQ5 owner is fortunate to have a warranty, any audi steering malfunction should be addressed promptly to ensure driver and passenger safety. Stay tuned for updates as this situation unfolds, and remember to prioritize safety when dealing with any steering-related issues in your vehicle.
