Steering components: Check for play, damage and, if nec., tightness

Checking play: 

1. Check the tie rod backlash only in loaded condition or in the design position.
2. Checking with front axle raised: 
   • To evaluate the play of the steering gear, it is necessary to pressurize the steering gear via its servo system!
   • The combustion engine must be running during hydraulically or electrically assisted steering for this purpose

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Steering wheel: 

Shift steering wheel back and forth and check for play.

Tie rod joint: 

There must be no play between the tie rod joint (1) and track-rod arm (2).

Check for damage: 

Check bellows, axle and tie rod sleeves (e.g. cracks, holes) and leaks.

Check bellows for missing retaining straps.

Check for tightness (only for hydraulically supported steering): 

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

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

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.