E46 POWER STEERING

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My E46 has developed an annoying whine on the power steering system when the steering wheel is turned in either direction. It is not too loud but still I know its there and it bugs me :cursin:.

I opened the bonnet and saw that the was a bit of unsightly residue oil on the p/s reservoir bottle cap. I cleaned that off (not that it has anything to do with the whine) and opened the cap. The oil doesnt look too healthy ...... a dark murky red / brown colour. The car is now 9 years young and is closing in on 178k km's.

Does anyone have a DIY write up on servicing the power steering system or any advice on how to go about attacking the problem?

 

[Die_Miek]

www.bimmerfest.com/wiki/index.php/BMW_E46

 

[ZED1]

I had the same problem a few months ago. Power steering pump failing. Cure...replacement

 

[Jacques Motorem]

E46 six cylinder engine's p/s pumps break often - they are badly made and appear too small for the job. If you are slightly DIY then get one from an e36 328 (bigger and more robust pump) and adapt the pipes to fit.

 

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Thamks guys, will investigate further before deciding which route to take :thumb:

 

[BMW M]

Very comomon problem on the e46.

Buy the higher output pump IRC 150psi (Instead of the 110 psi) bend the pipes where the pump fits slightly, and you will not have a worry in the world. I replaced the 110psi pump on my 325i twice in a 12 month period. Luckily the first was under warranty.

The higher output pump is R1500 from bemows, stealers will charge you R5000 plus labour.

 

[Prev]

Very comomon problem on the e46.

Buy the higher output pump IRC 150psi (Instead of the 110 psi) bend the pipes where the pump fits slightly, and you will not have a worry in the world. I replaced the 110psi pump on my 325i twice in a 12 month period. Luckily the first was under warranty.

The higher output pump is R1500 from bemows, stealers will charge you R5000 plus labour.

Thanks for the heads up.........5 grand from the stealers :cursin::banghead:

 

[Prev]

Ok, the pump is now getting really loud..........would I still be able to drive the car if the pump packs up? Muscle building time

Going to contact Bemows and place order for the bigger pump.

 

[XMAX]

@Prevan - Youre in Durbs bro. Might be a good idea to look around dbn for the part. Perhaps check Martins in North Coast Road, or B&O in Umbilo, or Goldwagen.


Not saying that buying from Gauteng is a bad thing. Just saying that it might be cheaper for you to check in dbn. If you still fail, then by all means call Bemows.

 

[Bayn46]

When mine failed I had to drive 15km to get...the car is HEAVY as hell.

 

[Prev]

I phoned Fix-Em in Umgeni Rd and was quoted R1800 + VAT (supply and fit) with 1 year warranty.

Natal Power Steering and Brake in Springfield quoted R1500 + VAT if the existing pump can be re-conditioned or R2800 + VAT if they have to replace. Both options quoted includes fitment with 1 year warranty.

Going to check 1 more option before deciding.

 

[jeff_denning]

It might also be worth checking the ATF fluid, otherwise a power steering pump replacement it'll need to be.
Had the same issue on my E39.

 

[Heinrich]

It might also be worth checking the ATF fluid, otherwise a power steering pump replacement it'll need to be.
Had the same issue on my E39.

i replaced mine as well about 21 weeks ago.

R1700 from bemows.
although, not quite happy yet, still does not feel lite enouhg.
but again, i'ts me, nothing ever feels just right:argh::argh:

 

[Sankekur]

Just keep in mind that BMW powerstreering tend to be a bit more "meaty" for better feedback and so on.

 

[Peejay]

Just keep in mind that BMW powerstreering tend to be a bit more "meaty" for better feedback and so on.

Good point

 

[clinton.pearson]

Hi

Please forgive my ignorance as I am a noob here, can someone tell me what "bemows" means.

I am in Pretoria and require a power steering pump. The dealer Leo Haese wants to charge me R14000.00

Can someone let me know where to get a more reasonable option in Pretoria

 

[Heinrich]

Hi

Please forgive my ignorance as I am a noob here, can someone tell me what "bemows" means.

I am in Pretoria and require a power steering pump. The dealer Leo Haese wants to charge me R14000.00

Can someone let me know where to get a more reasonable option in Pretoria

bemows sell aftermarket and 2nd hand BMW spares
484 Soutter Street
Pretoria 0183
012 327 6294