If your Beemer has over 100,000 miles on it, it’s possible that the power steering pump has gone bad if you notice any of the following things. MMS Automotive can test the steering pump and replace it if necessary. In fact, we are the only shop you need for all of your BMW services and repairs. The following are signs that you need a new power steering pump in your BMW.
Make Strange Noises
One of the things that the pump will do is make strange noises when you turn the steering wheel. The most common sound that the pump will make is groaning. You will feel as if your BMW is protesting when you want to turn. Other sounds that a faulty steering pump will make are squealing and groaning.
Make the Wheel Stiff
Another problem that occurs when the steering pump is malfunctioning is your BMW’s steering wheel will get very stiff. This will make it very hard to turn the steering wheel, especially when you need to crank it tightly. If your first car had manual steering, you know what this feels like. You’ll have to use a little bit of muscle to turn the wheel to guide the BMW in the direction that you wanted to go.
Cause Unresponsiveness
Unfortunately, a serious problem that can occur when the steering pump goes bad is your BMW may become unresponsive when you steer. In other words, the luxury vehicle will not change directions. This can be dangerous because you can get stranded in an intersection or somewhere else on the road where you cannot change directions because the steering pump has affected the steering system.
Leak Power Steering Fluid
The BMW’s steering pump may also start to leak the power steering fluid out of it. Consequently, you will end up with a puddle of red fluid on the garage floor. You can check the power steering fluid level in the fluid reservoir to see if it is low. The fluid reservoir should be clearly marked on the cap.
Dissolve Into the Fluid
Finally, if you see metal flakes in the steering fluid when you check its level, the steering pump is dissolving into the fluid. Unfortunately, this is irreparable. This is a sign that the power steering pump needs to be replaced right away because it is wearing down.
Call MMS Automotive in South Bay, CA, today if you are having problems steering your BMW. We will inspect the steering system and test the steering pump.
