RED Triangle light on (PS) off

Just a brief update: changed the EPS ECU last night and the steering did not improve. I am now 100% that the faulty part is the steering motor, as when turning the wheel there is a subtle grinding noise and vibration in the wheel, even with minor turns.
Did anyone else had these symptoms?
What could be the reason for a faulty motor? Vibration, poor road condition or is this normal wear and tear for 7 years and 100.000 miles?
I am now searching for a salvaged steering column at a reasonable price and preferably not from a front collision car and waiting for a labor price quotation from the dealer.

 

There is no way to know why one particular steering motor fails without taking it apart. It is not normal in any case. In the case of worn or stuck brushes, a technically sophisticated tap with a hammer could get the brushes to reseat and restore function for a while.

 

That's too sophisticated for me
Will dismantle it and see what the internal damage is. I suspect that there is a high chance I could refurbish it and either keep it as a spare or sell it and recover some of the expenses.
Found a used steering column for 100$, just hoping is not DOA.