Hey all!

I purchased my 2005 RX8 last year and I have been having power steering problems ever since. After scouring the forums I found the DIY for cleaning the connectors. Once I cleaned the connectors (and rerouted my radiator hose), I had power steering! It was a success, but only short lived. The power steering light would intermittently flip on and after a cleaning turn off, until recently when the cleaning stopped doing the trick. I replaced the harness, since many members have found that to be the failure, but still no such luck. Then I thought that maybe the problem was with the connector with the three 14ga wires underneath the air filter box, so I cut the wires and simply soldered them together, but still no such luck.

Which brings me here. I've just about given up. I don't want to take it to the dealership for them to claim its the rack and replace it because honestly I don't have the funds to allow it. Can anyone help me diagnose it?

 

You don't mention you check the fuse..did you?

 

I did check the fuse, but I don't really know how to tell if the fuse is blown or not. I will be heading to the store, later today to try replacing it being that the 32V 60a fuse is only $5. I'll report back with the results.

I really hope I don't need to get a new rack

 

Replaced the fuse today still the same issue

 

sounds like distrubing the connector did the trick several times, then ceased to do the trick.

I would check the connection (both sides) and look for something there.

Best I got

 

Everywhere I read they say the problem is with the connector underneath the air filter box with the 3 wires coming off. I soldered the three wires together and it still didn't work. I might just have to spring the cash and take it to the dealership or call it a year with it and put it into storage and worry about it next season.

 

Anyone got any other ideas for me? Or does anyone know if putting in a new steering rack is viable for a DIY?

 

What 04 is saying is to check and clean the connecter down at the rack. I did all the mods and a new harness on mine. Worked for a few months, but now I got the auto spin when I start the car. Time for a new PS control unit for mine.

 

no power steering ftw

 

If you soldered the wires together, My guess is that they were not the issue. sorry.

You could trace the wires back up to wherever they go, and see if you can find an issue. Look specifically for where they are not protected, one may have chaffed. best I got.