Steering Wheel Noise

[2ndBimmer]

A coupla days ago I started getting this odd noise, a clicking sound, when turning the steering wheel to high angles at low speeds, ie: parking.

Anyone have an idea of what this is?

[1996 328ti]

I can't remember where I read but I think there is a ring that makes an electrical contact in the steering wheel. Sometimes it needs to be lubricated, sometimes replaced.

[grail]

i had this as well before i had my balljoint done.i don't know how exactly but its worth checking out.

[J!m]

To all:

there is no 'ring' like the old-school steering wheels had.

There is a ribbon cable wrapped around the colum. This could be bad, and if so, could also possible deploy the air bag??

It may be worth checking out...

[1996 328ti]

You sure?
I saw my independent take off the wheel and disconnect the airbag wire from it.

[simo2k]

jim is right the old school type of a piece of metal off a ring attached to the steering wheel is no more because of the airbag better means of contacts are needed to ensure the airbag doesnt activate. it is what we call a clock spring over here. a coil of ribbon cable wound up. if your airbag light works comes on and then goes off when vehicle started and horn works ok then no probs here....


ps : before you do remove your steering wheel with airbag disconnect battery for about 10 mins to discharge energy from airbag...

[J!m]

Yeah, what he said...

[DCSean8]

I'm having an alternate problem with my steering. When my car is standing still or going less then 10 mph, there is a weird grinding noise whenever I turn the wheel. I've heard of 318s having noisy steering boxes, but I'm worried this might be more then that. To fix the problem, I've topped off the power steering fluid, I've located the noise and it seems to be coming from the powersteering pump. It dosn't affect driving at all, but I was just wondering if anyone else has experienced this noise.

[Jeff Spooner]

It could be due to a stopped up filter. Which is inside the tank where you add the fluid. you must buy a new one, make sure you flush the entire system very well. I have seen the fluid black.

[DCSean8]

How would I check this filter and how much does a new one cost? Also, does driving with a bad filter do alot of damage to the car, specifically the rack or pump? ANy information would be appreciated.

[Jeff Spooner]

part# 32 41 1 097 164, I would reccomend replacing both hoses that go to it . they are bad about leaking. you can get all the parts from AUTOPARTSWORLD.COM. list price for the reservoir is $40, should be cheaper from them. If the filer is stopped up it could burn the pump up.

[ddiorio1313]

I was under my car the other day and noticed some power steering fluid on one of power steering hoses. I was thinking about getting it replaced after reading this I may just do a full service on the power steering. I feel like the steering in my car has been getting a little loose anyway. Maybe an overhaul of the power steering stuff will get that spring back onto the wheel.

[1996 328ti]

The hose that looks like a trumpet leak all the time.
You might want to flush out the steering fluid as well.

[ddiorio1313]

Steven: Yeah I am going to take a closer look into the power steering...Thanks!

[2ndBimmer]

Ok, its fixed.

Mechanic replaced the clock spring: $150 for parts, $70 labor.

Not too bad, I think.