00 00... Steering components: Check for play, tightness, damage and wear

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2013 BMW X5, 2012 BMW X5, and 2011 BMW X5. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Checking play:

For hydraulically assisted steering systems, the engine must be running
For electrically steering servo, the ignition must be on
Steering wheel: Move steering wheel back and forth and check for play
Track rod joint: There must be no play between the track-rod arm (2) and track rod joint (1)

Fig 1: Checking Play Between Track-Rod Arm And Track Rod Joint
Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Checking for tightness:

The following illustration shows the arrangement of the hydraulic steering components and lines.

Fig 2: Example Of Hydraulic Steering Components And Lines

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Check all visible connections, hoses, lines and steering box for traces of fluid.

Checking for damage and wear:

Check gaiters, flexible disc and axle and tie rod sleeves for damage (e.g. cracks, holes), for tightness or missing tensioning straps on gaiters.