VW Polo Power Steering Fault
Three weeks at another garage. A replacement pump already installed. And still, the steering warning light remained on the dashboard.
“The steering’s no lighter. It’s the same fault it went in with.”
That’s what Mr H told the team at Fitch Autos when he called about his Volkswagen Polo. Despite the work already carried out elsewhere, the steering felt just as heavy, and the power assistance still hadn’t returned.
It was understandable that he was starting to question whether the fault could be put right.
To get to the bottom of the issue, we arranged for the vehicle to come into our Brownhills workshop for a full technical evaluation. That gave our team the opportunity to apply a structured diagnostic process, using verified procedures and serial data from the outset.
Our next step was to investigate the fault and begin working through the system methodically, one stage at a time.
First Scan Confirms Fault Code 00816 Power Steering Sensor (G250)
When Mr H’s VW Polo arrived at Fitch Autos in Brownhills, he reported a complete loss of power steering and a persistent red warning light on the dashboard. Our technicians confirmed the same symptoms during the initial checks. The steering was heavy throughout, and the dashboard alert remained active.
The vehicle had already received a replacement steering pump/motor unit at another garage. But despite the new part, the warning light hadn’t cleared, and the car was no easier to handle. With this background, we moved on to the first stage of our own investigation.
We began by reviewing what had already been done and checking the visible components of the system. The pump showed no physical damage, and there were no signs of hydraulic leaks or connector faults.
Next, we ran a full diagnostic scan using our Volkswagen dealer-level tool. The result was clear: a single stored fault in the steering module.
00816 – Power Steering Sensor (G250)
This code indicates that the system was unable to interpret the expected input from the power steering sensor. However, the fault code alone didn’t confirm the cause. A mismatch between component and software, an uncoded module, or another signal compatibility issue could all result in the same warning.
With the warning still active and the fault logged, we proceeded with a structured diagnostic process to determine why the system had shut down steering assistance.
Detailed Assessment of VW Polo Power Steering Fault and Fault Code 00816
With fault code 00816 confirmed in the system and the VW Polo presenting with no steering assistance, we began our structured diagnostic process. Here’s how we worked through the fault step by step.
Step 1: Verifying Electrical Supply to the Pump/Motor
We began by checking whether the pump/motor unit was receiving the correct voltage and ground supply.
- Using the manufacturer’s wiring diagram, we located the power and earth connections at the pump connector
- With the ignition switched on, we tested both the power and ground circuits using a multimeter
What we found:
Battery voltage was present and the ground circuit was sound. There were no faults in the supply wiring. The pump/motor unit was receiving the electrical input it needed, so the fault wasn’t due to a power delivery problem.
Step 2: Checking Module Communication and Sensor Data
Next, we reviewed system-level communication using our Volkswagen ODIS diagnostic tool.
- We accessed the steering module and retrieved the fault memory
- We reviewed the serial data and checked the live values available from the control unit
- We confirmed that the internal module within the pump was active and communicating with the vehicle network
What we found:
The control module was responsive and online, but the signal from the power steering sensor (G250) was invalid or missing. As a safety measure, the system disabled steering assistance. There were no network faults or other stored codes. This ruled out a total module failure and pointed towards a signal mismatch or configuration issue.
Step 3: Confirming Part Compatibility
Because the pump/motor had already been replaced, it was essential to verify that the unit installed was compatible with this specific VW Polo.
- We checked the part number on the fitted unit and cross-referenced it with Volkswagen’s parts database using the vehicle’s VIN
- We considered the variant used, as different steering systems were fitted across the VW Polo range
- Some units may look identical but are electronically configured differently. If the signal format doesn’t match what the system expects, fault code 00816 can be triggered
What we found:
The fitted pump/motor unit did not match what this vehicle was originally built with. Although physically similar, its configuration didn’t align with the system’s expectations. This caused the steering module to receive an unexpected signal format, triggering fault code 00816 and disabling power assistance.
Step 4: Reviewing Programming and Coding Setup
Even if the part itself is correct, it must be programmed to the vehicle after installation to function as intended.
- We accessed the internal module using ODIS
- We checked the coding and adaptation parameters
- We reviewed the module information to see whether the unit had been correctly programmed after installation
What we found:
The pump/motor had not been coded. Without this step, the vehicle could not read the sensor input correctly. As a result, the system disabled the power steering to prevent incorrect operation.
This confirmed the fault: the fitted pump/motor unit was both incompatible and unprogrammed, which prevented the system from operating as designed.
Fitting and Configuring the Correct Pump to Resolve Fault Code 00816
With the fault identified and clearly explained, Mr H gave us the go-ahead to carry out the repair. We followed our established process to restore the vehicle’s steering system.
- We sourced the correct pump/motor unit using the VIN to verify the part against Volkswagen’s database
- We checked the electrical connectors, wiring harness, and hydraulic fittings for damage or contamination before installation
- The incompatible unit was removed, and the new vehicle-specific component was installed
- Once in place, we reconnected all wiring and hydraulic lines, then bled the system to remove air and stabilise pressure
The next stage was to carry out programming using the manufacturer’s diagnostic platform.
- We connected to the steering control module using ODIS
- The pump/motor unit was programmed to the vehicle, enabling proper signal recognition
- We cleared the stored fault code and carried out a complete system check
Following the repair, the red steering warning light was no longer displayed. Steering assistance was fully restored, and the vehicle passed all final function and road tests.
Structured Diagnosis Leads to Full Recovery of VW Polo Power Steering Fault
With the issue resolved and the vehicle performing normally, the job was complete. The fix had addressed the cause of the fault directly.
This outcome reflected the value of carrying out a full technical evaluation rather than relying on assumptions. Through careful testing, we identified the real source of the fault and applied the right fix the first time.
Although the vehicle had already spent time off the road without a resolution, the problem was diagnosed and repaired at Fitch Autos within a single visit.
Mr H left reassured that the issue had been professionally addressed. The repair was supported by our 12-month parts and labour guarantee.
If Your VW Polo Steering Light Is On, We Can Help
A steering warning light or heavy steering in your VW Polo usually means the power assistance system has shut down. That’s not something to ignore; it needs testing by credible technicians who are experts at dealing with complex cases.
At Fitch Autos in Brownhills, we diagnose power steering faults using Volkswagen diagnostic platforms and structured testing processes. Whether you’re dealing with fault code 00816 or just unsure why the system has failed, we’ll help you get back on the road with confidence.
Why Tamworth and Wolverhampton drivers choose us for VW power steering repair:
- Full technical evaluations to trace faults accurately
- VW diagnostic tooling used for testing, coding, and repair
- Courtesy cars available to keep you moving
- All work covered by a 12-month parts and labour guarantee
Join the {{review-count}} local drivers who rate Fitch Autos {{average-rating}} stars on Google for reliable, diagnostic-led repairs.
📞 Call 01543 452630 to book your technical evaluation.
