Exactly! Dealers and aftermarket mechanics love to throw parts at a problem. On my E53 I complained the steering felt "difficult". After two power steering pumps ($1K each) and a steering rack ($1,800) it was found that the steering knuckle ($45) had corroded. Problem solved. Often it is the simplest and least expensive fix that works.

__________________
2013 X5 3.5i M Sport
2004 M3 cabriolet SMG