Power Steering (Servotronic) - Audi A4 Owner's Manual

document_0900452a81b1b9de.book Seite 225 Donnerstag, 26. Juli 2007 9:16 09
WARNING
When applying the brakes to clean off deposits on the pads and
discs, select a clear, dry road. Be sure not to inconvenience or
endanger other road users; do not risk an accident.
Never let the car coast with the engine switched off (this can
cause accidents).
Caution
Never let the brakes "drag" by leaving your foot on the pedal
when you do not really intend to brake. This overheats the brakes,
resulting in longer stopping distances and greater wear.
Before driving down a long, steep gradient, it is advisable to
reduce speed and move the selector lever to a lower gear. In this
way you will make use of the engine braking effect and relieve the
load on the brakes. If you still have to use the brakes, it is better to
brake firmly at intervals than to apply the brakes continuously.
Note
If the brake servo is out of action due to a malfunction, or if the
car has to be towed, you will have to press the brake pedal consid-
erably harder to make up for the lack of servo assistance.
If you wish to equip the car with accessories such as a front
spoiler or wheel covers, it is important that the flow of air to the
front wheels is not obstructed, otherwise the brakes can overheat.

Power steering (servotronic)

The power steering assists the driver when turning the
steering wheel (with the engine running).
The power steering assists the driver by reducing the force needed
to turn the steering wheel. The degree of power assistance is
adapted electronically, depending on the speed.
Controls
If a fault should occur in the servotronic system the power steering
will still operate. The degree of power assistance will, however, no
longer adapt to different speeds. If the electronic regulating system
is not working properly, this is most noticeable when turning the
steering wheel at low speeds (for instance when parking) – more
effort will be required than usual. The fault should be corrected by
a qualified workshop as soon as possible.
The power steering does not function when the engine is switched
off. In this case the steering wheel is very hard to turn.
If the steering is held at its turning limit when the car is stationary,
this will place an excessive load on the power steering system. In
this case, the power steering system will make noises. It will also
reduce the idling speed of the engine.
Do not keep the steering in the full-lock position for longer than
15 seconds when the engine is running – this could cause damage
to the power steering system.
switched off (for instance when being towed), the car can still be
steered. However, more effort will be required to turn the steering
wheel.
a qualified workshop as soon as possible.
reservoir is located at the front of the engine compartment on the
left ⇒ page 256. The correct fluid level in the reservoir is important
for the power steering to function properly. The hydraulic fluid level
is checked at the Inspection Service.
Safety Driving tips General maintenance
Intelligent technology
Caution
Note
If the power steering should fail at any time or the engine is
If the system is leaking or malfunctioning, please take the car to
The power steering requires a special hydraulic fluid. The fluid
Self-help
225
Technical data