00 00... Steering Components: Checking For Zero Clearance, Leaks, Damage And Wear

WARNING: This page does not describe the selected car, but rather 6 other vehicles, including the 2006 BMW M3, 2005 BMW M3, 2004 BMW M3, 2003 BMW M3, and 2002 BMW M3. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Checking For Zero Clearance:

Steering wheel:
Move steering wheel back and forth and check for zero clearance.
Tie rod joint:

There must no clearance between tie rod arm (2) and tie rod joint (1).

Fig 1: Checking Tie Rod Joint

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Checking For Leaks:

The following illustrations shows the arrangement of the power steering components and lines.

Fig 2: Identifying Steering System Checking Points For Leakage

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

STEERING SYSTEM CHECKING POINTS FOR LEAKAGE SPECIFICATIONS

1	Pump	6	Hollow screw
2	Oil cooler	7	Container
3	Return line	8	Suction hose
4	Steering gear	D	Sealing ring
5	Pressure line	-	-

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

Checking For Damage And Wear:

Check steering sleeves, flexible disc and axle and tie rod sleeves for damage (e.g. cracks, holes) for leaks or missing clamping bands on gaiters.