530i heavy steering, fluid checked

[chillax5]

My 01 530i has heavy steering, it's most noticeable at slower speeds, but it is much heavier than other E39 and 330i I have driven. I checked the PS fluid, what else could be missing.

[mijuko]

Added wrong fluid? Air in the system? Worn power steering pump or rack...
Bigger wheels or low air pressure compared to others you've driven? Worn tyres?

[chillax5]

The maint is up to date, stock wheel/tires. Is there a PS pulley that drive the pump, belt new as well, maybe pulley worn/slipping???

[granlund]

Re-grease the strut top bearings by removing the plastic cover at the top mount. Mine were so bad last summer that the steering was notchy and almost felt like locking up.

[rathi60]

check the suspension bushing

[JerryIrvine]

Mine would be heavy at the first use of the drive. In the shop now and have found the belt tensioner is bad, way too much slack. Getting fixed now. Everything else looks good. Maybe this is it?

Jerry
2001 530i