Wifes car, 1.9 BXE auto, now has orange steering wheel symbol lit up. I wonder if it's low on fluid (don't laugh) then quickly discover it's not going to be that. Hey! I didn't know. I try the old lock to lock trick, it doesn't work. I check the fuse with a multi meter, seems fine.

So, what else could it be before I get to the pump and what could I try within the realms of reasonable cost (to myself) ?

Pump wise, where is that located? I have tried searching this forum and youtube to no avail.

Suggestions, tips and cheats all gratefully received.

It's also got a lazy starter motor, but I can't see that from above either so advice appreciated.

You didn't say the car's year. Earliest may have had hydraulic power steering but the majority have electric power steering.

Check the fault code as it may be just be a sensor issue.

Common reason for the steering wheel symbol is that it has lost the information on the position of the end limits due to disconnection of the battery. A bad cable will do the same.

Lock to lock movement is the reset but if this doesn't work, read the fault code.

OK guy/s. Finally got round to giving it a scan with my handheld. O0778 steering angle sensor is what I have. So, the lock to lock doesn't reset/recalibrate it, does this means it's fooged?

What's next?

Forgot to mention, it's a 2007 car.

This video for a Polo will show you what's involved for the next step.

I recomend you use a VAG garage.

As it happens, the car also had a rear wheel speed sensor error on the dash. Bought a new rear sensor for a tenner, fitted that this afternoon. Cleared that code. Drove away, and the steering wheel light went out too.

I wouldn't have needed a vag garage, I can fit stuff, Just coding I can't do, and as I understand it from reading and watching a lot of vids, clearing the code and going lock to lock seems to sort it out. Anyway, all sorted now.

On to the next one.

If it comes back check the condition of the battery. You mentioned a lazy starter motor but it could be a failing battery. Low voltage causes all manner of false faults on these cars and can ping up warning lights especially when cranking.

Alasdair