SIRION ISSUES

Recently, my car, a 2006 Daihatsu Sirion 1,3, developed a problem. The electric power steering (EPS) light on the dash would light up at the same time that power steering is lost. All diagnostic checks point to a steering-column fault. This problem has occurred intermittently after I had the brake pads replaced; could there be a link?

According to some advice I’ve received, the entire steering column has to be replaced at a cost of over R10 000, which I find hard to accept. I have checked all fuses but they appear fine. Any ideas what else I can try to resolve the issue that would not cost an arm and a leg? BARRY KING Stellenbosch

Unfortunately, it’s a known Daihatsu Sirion malady. The EPS motor sits on the steering shaft with a control unit and, therefore, a dealer will replace the entire assembly at great cost (we have heard of quotes of up to R40 000) when this fault raises its ugly head.

There are a couple of checks you can do before replacing

the assembly, though: • Check all the related fuses and relays, and clean the contact points. Apparently, one fuse/ relay box is located in the passenger-side footwell and the other under the bonnet. • Check the condition of the battery and alternator because low voltage creates problems for the EPS. • Remove the electric motor from the steering shaft for inspection. Open the motor and check the brushes (replace them if needed) as well as the condition of the rotor and armature. Clean off all the carbon deposits and retrofit the motor.