MG CAR OWNERS FORUM

In my opinion, the steering of my 1999 Cougar is excessively heavy.
I tried switching the fluid, but it had no effect.
Driving the car is a chore, particularly in congested city traffic with lots of turns, but the power steering appears to be effective because it is lighter when the engine is running. However, it is still too heavy.

Have you any ideas about what I should look at?

Could you please tell me the brand and pressure of your tires?

I opted for 225/50-16 since the original size, 215/50-16, was not available.
For the sake of seeing if it makes a difference, I have been trying to locate an affordable set of 205/55-16 wheels.

Sure, more steering load will result from wider tires, but your pressures could be off as well.

I would recommend checking the pressures of your tires first. Your steering will feel heavy if your tyre pressures are below the recommended level.
When was the most recent maintenance on the serpentine belt? Under heavy loads, like full lock, does the engine bay make any noise?
Your power assist may be affected if your serpentine belt is slipping even slightly.