3 series 320d E90 steering wheel play

[Nicelytoasted]

Hi all,

new to here so be gentle.... I have just purchased a lovely 2007 BMW 3 series 320d E90 automatic that's got 80k on the clock, I have driven it for a couple of weeks now and have noticed that there is a slight amount of play in the steering wheel when you turn it left or right before the wheels start to turn about 10mm of movement either way in the steering wheel where it feels light before the wheels on the car start to move, you can feel it while driving too especially on uneven roads as the car will jut about slightly and you have to compensate with the steering, it's not a major compensation but is noticeable...

just wondered if anyone has any suggestions on what to look for? I have heard talk of a rubber knuckle joint in the steering column or something that can wear.... any help would be much appreciated! Thanks 😃

[Bimmer Owners' Club]

Hi Alastair....welcome to the Forum

I would not take any chances especially with steering and take it to a reputable garage who can check it out.

Chances are it's just a bush that's broken up and allowing excess play in the steering.

Keep us updated on the progress

Cheers  Trevor

[Nicelytoasted]

Hi Trevor 

after closer inspection and getting someone to turn my steering wheel slightly from side to side (within the area of play) while I had my head under the bonnet and looking at the steering column I could see that there is wear in the lower universal joint on the steering column that attaches to the top of the steering rack, the play is in the actual knuckle of the universal joint itself. Finding it slightly tricky to find a spare though that's brand new... I have a second hand one in excellent condition so I might have a go at fitting that one for now until I can source a brand new one. Has anyone ever changed one of these? Seems reasonable... 2 pinch bolts... any advise would be great!

cheers

alistair

[Bimmer Owners' Club]

Just make sure you don't turn the steering wheel at all whilst it is all disconnected as there is an SRS rotary coupling which can be damaged if turned beyond its limits, otherwise, its just nuts and bolts.

Good luck

[dubbed]

Welcome! Hope you replaced that item smoothly and would make a difference. Update us.