00 00. Steering components: checking for zero clearance, leaks, damage and wear

WARNING: This page does not describe the selected car, but rather 13 other vehicles, including the 2006 BMW 330Ci, 2006 BMW 325Ci, 2005 BMW 325xi, 2005 BMW 325i, and 2005 BMW 325Ci. 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 clearance.
Tie rod joint:
There must no clearance between tie rod arm rod joint (1).

Fig 1: Checking For Zero Clearance Between Tie Rod Arm 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 Arrangement Of Power Steering Components And Lines

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

POWER STEERING COMPONENTS AND LINES ARRANGEMENT

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