Full Lock Steering Problem

[Tubbytat]

Hi
i just bought a 1999 model A140 elegance (1999), When going forwards on full lock either turning right or Left the steering does not return to centre, and gets stuck in full lock position and needs strong user power to bring it out of full lock, once out of full lock it returns to centre, allbeit slow.

Now when i reverse at full lock left or right it returns from the full lock position unaided without problems.

any ideas!! Thanks in advance

 

[Hertfordshire Merx]

A classes have been known to suffer with weak power steering pumps. However I would get the geometry (4 wheel alignment) checked incase the castor is miles out as this would cause that problem. Has this car been involved in an accident?