Steve Webb
18-02-12, 12:07
Whilst driving in the cold weather recently I noticed a couple of times that the warning light for the power steering came on at startup in the 500.
Not only the warning light, but also a full on warning message stating 'Check power steering, refer to handbook' scrolling across the dashboard.
Bugger, first problem with the 500 I initially thought, but on looking closer it seems that if the system sees a low voltage in the power steering system during startup it activates the warning. So the cold weather, plus not using the 500 much recently means the battery wasn't at its best and we got the message. No real problem just a moment of anxiety and a large warning light on the dash that clears itself when you stop and restart the car.
Things like this really annoy me as guess what the handbook says, yep thats right, seeks assistance at the dealer. So is this just a case of nanny state motoring or a money making rouse by the manufacturer?
Similarly when the ABS cuts in the hazard warning lights activate, fine if you are doing an emergency stop, but pretty annoying if you are just driving enthusiastically.
Really do need to take the 500 out more though, its only done 17500 km in the last 3 years and 10 months.
Not only the warning light, but also a full on warning message stating 'Check power steering, refer to handbook' scrolling across the dashboard.
Bugger, first problem with the 500 I initially thought, but on looking closer it seems that if the system sees a low voltage in the power steering system during startup it activates the warning. So the cold weather, plus not using the 500 much recently means the battery wasn't at its best and we got the message. No real problem just a moment of anxiety and a large warning light on the dash that clears itself when you stop and restart the car.
Things like this really annoy me as guess what the handbook says, yep thats right, seeks assistance at the dealer. So is this just a case of nanny state motoring or a money making rouse by the manufacturer?
Similarly when the ABS cuts in the hazard warning lights activate, fine if you are doing an emergency stop, but pretty annoying if you are just driving enthusiastically.
Really do need to take the 500 out more though, its only done 17500 km in the last 3 years and 10 months.