WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2002 BMW M Roadster, 2002 BMW M Coupe, 2001 BMW M Roadster, and 2001 BMW M Coupe. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
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).