Power Steering

[DrewThomas]

Just picked up a 2004 325xi. Had it about 3 weeks. Power steering was fine when I test drove it, but there was pulley noise and/or belt noise at the time, and figured belts and other issues would be coming up soon. After the first week power steering started getting weak. Not sure if this is standard German steering being stiff to begin with. The steering seems to "catch" and gets stiff while turning corners in a very narrow range of the turning radius. After the initial turn, the steering feels to return to normal. Fluid levels are good. The previous owner it was noted had the steering column gear replaced. I've seen that the original power steering pump on these was a poor design and the shaft would sheer. As I begin looking into this, just trying to get forum input on what might be going on. I may be premature in posting this until further investigation.

[MarcoZandrini]

Check the power steering fluid reservoir for fluid level. The power steering system uses Dexron3 automatic transmission fluid.

[por911]

Check the power steering fluid reservoir for fluid level. The power steering system uses Dexron3 automatic transmission fluid.

Not all of the p/s systems use Dex III, most use CHF 11S power steering fluid (Pentosin, Febi, etc..). If it uses the CHF 11S, they should consider using an additive along with the CHF 11S since the pumps are a weak spot.
Regards

[yukon101]

My 04 325xi is Dex III. The issue with my power steering is my passenger side upper strut mount has decided it doesn't want to be one with the gaseous shock so the rubber has cracked and separated. I don't have the time or the money to buy a spring compressor to fix it either.

[MarcoZandrini]

All E46s’ power steering systems use Dexron3. There has been confusion because some replacement ZF reservoirs have the Pentosin label.

[DrewThomas]

All E46s’ power steering systems use Dexron3. There has been confusion because some replacement ZF reservoirs have the Pentosin label.

Yeah, I'm pretty sure its Dexron3. Still have not had time to dig into the steering issue, but it's getting worse, but it's also getting colder outside.