Over the past month or so, I used to hear noises when I turned my steering wheel (sounded like a 'rung', the sound you hear when a car speeds by you).<p>I got the car serviced recently (30k) and they found a leak in the tube that connects the power steering fluid with the engine (or something like that). They replaced the tube and cleaned the thing and topped off the fluid... but my question is: has this happened to anyone else?<p>I love taking sharp turns with my excellent handling A4, and was only aware of the tires bearing the brunt (and the drivetrain, I guess). Could this have happened as a result of turning sharply one too many times?<p>--<br>Adil<br>'97 A4 2.8 QMS

but holding the steering in lock (you can hear the pump labor) is hard on the lines and fittings. There have been some reports of leaks (most I've heard of are on the connections to the rack), but racks can also leak. When the rack seals go it leaks into the steering boot, so you don't see the leak right away (no puddles). So when you check the engine oil you should also check the remainder of the fluids. If they go down fast assume that it is leaking and get it checked because there is no normal usage (note that the brakes will go down slowly as the pads wear).

> has this happened to anyone else<p>I had my rack replaced because it was leaking. The new one has been<br>fine now for 10K miles. If I were you I would keep an eye on the fluid level.l<p>BTW, quick turns shouldl not cause these problems.<p>E<br>86 4KS<br>96 A4QM

Leaking power steering hoses has been a fairly common problem. I found out about it on this forum over a year ago. Checked fluid. It was low. Took it to dealer. Service writer tried to say it was normal "consumpution". Of course, I know that power steering does NOT consume oil. He pooh poohed the idea that I heard about it on the internet. Finally convinced him to have a mechanic look it. They performed the fix you mentioned...though they did not clean the mess the leaking fluid made in my wheel well. <br> I have not had any problems since, but once again I remind all A4 owners to check the fluid in the power steering if they haven't had the fix. It was a reminder like this that made me check mine.<p>Greg "S"

One good thing to do is take a flashlight and aim it down towards the plastic under sheet in the engine bay...you could see a fluid on it on my car. I did not notice a large amount of fluid loss...so mine was just a small leak in the connector hose.<p>Steve S.<br>97 2.8QM