Possible power steering pump failure?

[Awntchi]

Hi Guys,

I just went for a 10 min spin in the X and felt the steering being slightly heavy when turning left only, both in reverse and forward at crawl speed. I checked the tires (no issues) and looked for oil patch in the garage but nothing there, nor is the reservoir low on fluid. I don't have access to a lift until next week but wanted to get a head start and get a power steering pump ready if I have to. Anyone with advice on what this might be (if it's not what I'm suspecting it is)?

I'm converting the suspension next week and installing the Eonon Nav, hence the access to the lift.

[srmmmm]

If it's truly stiffer in one direction, something is binding in the steering linkage or fluid pressure is unevenly applied within the steering rack. A fluid flush and new filter/reservoir housing eliminated this problem for me.

2002 X5 3.0 297,010 miles
2014 428i 15,900 miles

2004 325i sold at 123,600 miles
2001 325i sold at 66,000 miles

[Awntchi]

Originally Posted by srmmmm

If it's truly stiffer in one direction, something is binding in the steering linkage or fluid pressure is unevenly applied within the steering rack. A fluid flush and new filter/reservoir housing eliminated this problem for me.

2002 X5 3.0 297,010 miles
2014 428i 15,900 miles

2004 325i sold at 123,600 miles
2001 325i sold at 66,000 miles

That sounds logical, thank you for the input. I guess i'll get under the car asap and see if anything is visible on the steering rack to start with.

Just to clarify, the steering rack is just filled with grease on either side...by flushing the system you mean the steering fluid, right?

BMW X5 4.8iS 2005

[srmmmm]

Flushing the steering fluid is correct.

[mferek]

I had a failing steering pump on my 328 and the steering was only heavy when the RPMs were low. When the RPMs rose, the steering went back to normal. It was never related to one direction or the other. The steering was also significantly heavier, rather than just slightly heavier. I replaced the pump and all was back to normal.

I would agree that it doesn't sound like the pump is failing, although there are probably more ways than one that it could fail. I agree with srmmmm that it sounds like something is binding a little bit.

[Awntchi]

Thanks mferek, i had the exact same issue as you with my old 320i and hence my suspicion of it being the pump again.

However, I've just come back from a more thorough investigation where I had some better light shining in and it does seem fluid is coming out of the reservoir/hose...although not enough to make a mark on the floor as it solidifies somewhere further down the engine bay.

Going to order a reservoir and fluid to start work on it this week, hopefully that should do it. Will keep you posted.

BMW X5 4.8iS 2005