Why does my car's steering wheel vibrate when I'm stationary?

When my 2014 Jaguar XF Sportbrake diesel is stationary or turning at low speeds, the steering wheel vibrates and the steering feels spongy. What is causing this? TW, East Kilbride

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There is most likely a problem with the power steering, which is called upon most when the car is being manoeuvred at low speed. It could be leaking fluid, so first ensure the level is correct in the power steering reservoir and top up if required.

Then check the level daily, and if it goes down, look for signs of leakage around the reservoir and along the pipes. Alternatively, there may be a problem with the belt that drives the power steering pump. A slack belt suggests an automatic tensioner has failed or jammed.

INSPECTOR GADGET
Dave Pollard has written several Haynes manuals and has tested just about every car-related accessory — read more from Dave here.

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