Steering, Checking For Leaks

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2016 Volkswagen Beetle, 2015 Volkswagen Beetle, 2014 Volkswagen Beetle, and 2013 Volkswagen Beetle. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

NOTE: Following installation operations and with no hydraulic fluid in the expansion tank, the steering system must be checked for leaks.

-- Start engine.

-- Turn steering wheel in both directions to full lock and hold briefly. This builds up the largest possible pressure (at idle only).

In this position, the following components must be checked for leaks.

Seal ring for steering pinion at the steering gear valve housing.
All line connections.
Seal rings for steering rack.

This test can only be performed with bellows slid back.

-- Open clamp for boot.

-- Push back the boot. If fluid is visible in steering gear housing and/or in bellows, steering gear must be replaced.