Hi All,
I'm planning to have my local shop investigate, but thought I would poll the enthusiasts here as to the likely cause/remedy.
Over the past few months I've occasionally had a disconcerting experience when braking hard to take a tight corner (left or right). The steering seems to get sluggish and makes groaning noises when I turn the wheel. Even sitting motionless, I can hear and feel something is out of sorts. After a short while (from 15 seconds to a minute or so later) it seems to subside.
I've no technical knowledge of steering systems, so please accept my apologies if the description seems vague. Any thoughts are welcome.
Brad
Last edited by Watch Carefully; 10-17-2018 at 12:30 PM.
Check power steering fluid level first, and refill as needed. Very common.
It is filled with normal Automatic Transmission Fluid as the hydraulic fluid. Do NOT put anything else but normal ATF.
If you have leaks (they all do), fix those first.
-Abel
- E36 328is ~210-220whp: Lots of Mods.
- 2000 Z3: Many Mods.
- 2003 VW Jetta TDI Manual 47-50mpg
- 1999 S52 Estoril M Coupe
- 2014 328d Wagon, self-tuned, 270hp/430ft-lbs
- 2019 M2 Competition, self-tuned, 504whp
- 2016 Mini Cooper S
Many thanks...picked up some ATF and filled up. The noise seems to have abated, but the reservoir was pretty low, and the car had been in the shop just a couple months back. I'll have to confirm with them whether they checked it. Might have a leak needing attention.
Anyhow, I much appreciate the advice.
Brad
You may have a PS hose leak, but first check the filler cap for the reservoir. I had a soaked down tube from the tank going into the pump. It’s covered with a mesh wrap. It was soaked and dripping about a 1/4 teaspoon of fluid a week. Using some degreaser and then some brake cleaner, I cleaned off the tank and the hoses and wiped down everything so it was fully dry. I then drove the car around and checked the tank and hoses after every stop. The o ring on the cap was hard and flattened and allowed a little fluid to seep past it. It was running down the side of the reservoir and then down the hose. I fixed the o ring and everything has been dry for 6 months.
My wife had a 330Ci and its tank was also a little wet once it got to over 50K miles. I’ve noticed almost every late 90s to early 2000s BMWs have weepy tanks. That may be your leak. If not, then it would be a hose. Good luck.
Steve
'02 Z3 3.0i
Thanks--I'll keep en eye on it and check that o-ring when I next take an observation!
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