Skoda Fabia Steering Pump Fluid Leak Signs
Do not underestimate what seems like a small leak of power steering fluid, as it can cause serious damage to your Fabia’s power steering pump very quickly.
Look for Puddles Under the Car
Look for a small puddle of oil under the front of the car. The puddle will be under the engine bay and the oil will be a reddish colour or light amber in colour. This is different from engine oil or coolant so should be easy to recognise.
Check the Fluid Reservoir Level
Locate the Power Steering Reservoir and Check the Level. Look for the small transparent tank next to the power steering pump with MIN and MAX marks on the side. Check the level of power steering fluid from time to time and if the level is dropping for no apparent reason then there must be a leak somewhere in the system. When the power steering pump is running low on fluid it is likely to run harder to maintain power steering, leading to premature wear.
Smell Something Slightly Burnt
Should Power Steering Fluid leak onto the engine then it will give off a faint burning smell, similar to warm up rubber or engine oil that has been heated up. This can be noticeable when driving at low speed such as when turning into a parking bay or when driving around a corner and then return to normal once returned to a straight line. It may also be noticeable when stationary for a period of time and then returning to driving. This can be checked by opening the bonnet and having a look at the reservoir as well as inspecting all of the hoses going to and from the power steering pump for signs of wet patches or fluid leaking from the ends of the hoses.
Feel for Changes in Steering Weight
Power steering fluid leaks from the steering pump, steering becomes very heavy, more so when turning slowly. This is a common symptom for low power steering fluid from a leak.
Spot Wet Hoses or Fittings
With the engine turned off take a look at the hoses leading from the pump to the rack. If there are any signs of a leak then they will be coming from the ends of the hoses or from the fittings. This type of leak will produce a wet patch on the engine casing that will be oily in nature. As time passes this can produce a dusty patch.
Catching a power steering fluid leak before it causes serious damage to your Skoda Fabia’s steering pump can save you a lot of money for repairs and also ensure that you are safe on the road.