Electric power steering column failure
Attaches to D at chassis level · Suspension · carried by 2 variants across 1 chassis
Overview
Electric power steering column failure is a common fault recorded against D at chassis level, typically from 80–170k km. It shows up as steering assistance cutting out while driving, a warning light, or assistance that comes and goes as the column warms up. Where it's documented, the repair runs €300–€900 (column assembly at an independent, with coding, costs dated 2026-07), and it can be partly checked before you buy. 2 variants across 1 chassis in this database inherit it.
What happens
Symptom. Steering assistance cutting out while driving, a warning light, or assistance that comes and goes as the column warms up.
Cause. The motor and its control electronics sit in the column, and the sensor and solder joints inside fail with age and vibration. It's a documented fault that was the subject of recall action in several markets.
Sources. Opel recall and service action documentation covering the steering column
How to check it
Static checks
Turn the wheel lock to lock while stationary and feel for any moment where the assistance drops out. Ask whether the recall work has been done, because that record is the useful answer here.
Engine off, ideally on a lift.
Every variant that carries this
| Variant | Chassis | Body | Years | Risk | Good buy | Cost as % of good buy |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1.2 16V A12XER | D | hatchback | 2009–2014 | R2 | €3,650 | 16% |
| 1.3 CDTI A13DTC | D | hatchback | 2006–2014 | R3 | €3,400 | 18% |
The last column is the point. The same repair is an inconvenience on one variant and a reason to scrap the car on another. A failure costing a quarter of the vehicle's value changes the purchase decision regardless of how rare it is.