"POP" sound when steering my X

[igosal]

I also had almost the same problem. The click sound was coming from the front. Also the vehicle was steering to right only at 20 miles and lower after slamming the brakes. I took it to the dealer and he replaced both R/I struts and both sway bar links (old one had bad ball and sockets) as there was a play, as per him. For steering problem, he replaced both front and rear pads although they were replaced 10000 miles ago. Never mind as long as it is warranty 4/50000 miles. Now drive is fine. I love my X5.

[cls530]

Hi Guys, I have had the popping problem and it is totally different to a clunk.
I have a 4.4 V8 X5 2004 model and I noticed the popping noise while I was doing an engine oil change . (routine stuff right) How this noise started was when I noticed the Power Steering reservoir was leaking from the bottom connecting tubes/hoses. I looked in the reservoir and noticed the fluid level was low and then when I turned the steering wheel (with Engine on) it created this popping noise. It is due to air entering the power steering system. It then gets pumped through the whole steering rack and can cause this noise on the way back out.
Solution, replace or tighten the hose clamp assemblies feeding the steering rack and pump.(see if this is leaking as often the factory clamps come loose replace clamps with new ones if required) then drain and refill the entire system with new power steering fluid. Once its full you will notice the noise never comes back.

The clunks on the other hand can be due to many steering related under-car components (and suspension components) mentioned in this post and elsewhere on this site. I would suggest putting it up on a hoist and observing whats happening while the wheels/ steering is being moved about. If you're not sure then take it to a good BMW specialist.

I hope this helps some of you.

regards

[Big "J"]

Nik... Did you ever figure out the popping noise in the front suspension when turning your steering wheel?

After replacing the sway bar bushings and links, I have this popping when turning to the left? I loosened and re-torqued the bolts for the bushings but, didn't do the links yet as I didn't over tighten them?

Thanks!!

[cfmistry]

I've done upper and lower control arms, and the sway end-links. Still have the pop when I turn left. Going to try the white lithium spray later today and see if that helps. From all my searching over the past 2 years the best answer I've found is that it's a worn bushing in the steering column that requires extensive labor to change.

[Kewl X5]

Retighten and retorque all subframe bolts...trust me. That will get rid of the "popping" noise when turning left.