My folks have just taken delivery of an 08 Skoda Superb (140 bhp TDI). It's the Laurent and Klement model and everything about it is excellent, except the steering is very heavy when the car is stationary or going slowly (less than 10 mph). Is this to be expected, a fault or is there anything that can be done to make it lighter?

Check the steering fluid reservoir is filled to the correct limit. The power steering system could have a leak somewhere maybe? If it is then I guess the pump could be at fault.

I also know the software in the car can be altered to suit the driver's needs. You can tell the car's computer to make the steering lighter or more harsh .... from memory the settings go from 1-9 .. so 1 is pretty heavy and 9 is meant to be used for drivers with disabilities (or Southerners ). So I guess it's possible, though unlikely, the previous owner had their dealership alter this setting?

Other than checking the steering itself isn't at fault I'm kinda out of ideas for you. Could always check your car hasn't been clamped?

Welcome, let us know when you get it sorted.

vagcom config:

Steering

44 – steering assist

07 - recode

Soft coding = 011x0 or 012x0

Replace x with a number from 1 – 9

2 = GTI

3 = Comfort

9 = Handicapped (very light)

have you checked the tyre pressure is correct?

vagcom config:

Steering

44 – steering assist

07 - recode

Soft coding = 011x0 or 012x0

Replace x with a number from 1 – 9

2 = GTI

3 = Comfort

9 = Handicapped (very light)

Does it work on Mk I Superb or Mk II Superb?

Anyway, an interesting tweak, I might set mine to 2 after it is back from accident repairs...Hopefully improves the feel at high speeds.

This only works on models with ecu controlled steering assist

As far as I'm aware, Superb 1s have oldschool mechanical power steering...

Then this whole thread is out of place. It belongs to to Superb Mk.2 forum...

Thanks for all the replies. How do I set vagcom? Assuming it's possible on the Superb Mk1 is this something I would need to get the dealer to do? Even if it can't be adjusted on the mk1 I just wondered if anyone else has reported similar experiences?

Once again, thanks for all the help. Great forum.

Then this whole thread is out of place. It belongs to to Superb Mk.2 forum...

Nope, 08 plate L&K is Superb 1

I think it's either you need some more air or you just aren't used to it yet, if you came from a car with light steering you may feel the difference mate.

Just caught up - my steering has always felt heavy and I run 2 other cars with no power steering!!! Garage checked and said all ok. Sometimes feels as if the pump has 'stalled' when parking - most odd.

ive replaced the tyres on my superb with dunlop fast response at around 75 quid each.....the handling is amazing compared to the originals i had on before.....body roll is reduced as the new tyres have stiffer side walls, and the direction of the car in relation to where steering wheel is is much sharper and responsive, also id like to mention the handling is a lot lighter. its also a lot more stable in crosswinds...basically i feel the tyres have improved the handling of my superb in quite a big way....if you dont believe me.........buy some and try it for yourself lol