Power Steering Upgrade

[amit_shimla]

Hi Team,
I own a 2005 Alto LX which has cloaked 1.5 Lakh kilometers. The biggest mistake I did while purchasing the car was not to opt for the power steering version. I really maintain the car very well and will be keeping it. Now I really feel the need of a power steering and had some questions in mind. I hope to get great valuable inputs here.
The questions I have :
1. Is it advisable to install a power steering at this time where the vehicle is 8 years old?
2.How much it would cost?
3. Is it wise to purchase a new MGP assembly? or should I look in the after market.
4. Is it possible to fit any other vehicles power steering?

 

[ss80]

Hi Amit,

Welcome to TAI. Glad to know you own India's best selling hatchback!

Alto has Electronic power steering (EPS), to install this a few parts needs to be changed and some wiring work is required. Our member Varun has it in his M800,

Click here to know more
http://www.theautomotiveindia.com/forums/ownership-reviews/5044-my-modified-maruti-800-a-79.html

New setup costs approx. 30K (total set up)
Used one from Scrapyard/garage will cost you: about 15 - 17K (total set up)

Steering column, power steering motor, ECM for this motor, - these are the parts you need to procure.
Unless you plan to retain the car for the next 5+years, do not invest money in this upgrade.
Other option:
Getting Matiz power steering installed in your car, it is a lengthy process, some claim to have done it, I am yet to see a functioning one though.

http://www.theautomotiveindia.com/forums/technical-zone/3033-advantages-electronic-power-steering-vs-hydraulic-power-steering.html

 

[amit_shimla]

Thank you for you valuable input on this. 30K seems to be too much of money to be invested. I am having second thoughts now.

 

[ss80]

Yeah Amit, instead you can simply upsize the existing tyres, that will reduce the load on the steering as wider tyres are easier to turn (even at standstill).