power steering

hi all,

recently whilst exiting a motorway i stopped at the lights. my steering went stiff. i could not move it. when the lights turned to green and i pulled away and it started to work. any suggestions on what the problem is?

sounds like you are simply short of fluid, the extra revs compensates for a bit until it runs dry.

Originally Posted by purple145

sounds like you are simply short of fluid, the extra revs compensates for a bit until it runs dry.

thanks, before i refill can you tell me is it the reservoir that is in line with the oil filler cap (just above) and do i need to get a special fluid. (as you can see i am only just starting to carry out work myself)

it sits on the bulkhead, the bit that separates the engine from the passenger compartment, below the wipers. Should have a yellow sticker on with a steering wheel symbol on, although these can come off. There should be a level indicator in the reservoir.

Special oil is needed, called automatic transmission fluid, or ATF so short, its red in colour, widely available as most cars use the same stuff, about a fiver for a litre.

HTH

forgot, newer models are located differently, this page should help

Introduction to the Modern Alfa Romeo Engine Bay.

no 2 in the pic

HTH

thanks, just the info i was looking for.