I have a issue with overly heavy steering. The first half turn in each direction is very stiff at slower speeds and the steering wheel does not return to center on its own, it stays stuck where it is until I turn it manually. I hear no obvious sounds or clunking coming from the engine bay or interior. The PS fluid level is ok. While searching it appears this could be cause by a number of things. 1) alignment 2) PS pump 3)Lower steering shaft 4) the steering rack Can anyone help suggest a way I can trouble shoot this on my own to narrow down list? What would be the best parts to start replacing first if nothing obvious stands out? Thanks in advance.
Sounds like the lower steering shaft u joints are stiff causing stiff steering and then will get easier all of sudden. To check this look at the joints of the lower steering shaft they should be dry and dirt free. If you see a collection of dirt and the rubber boots torn then it would need to be replaced. The second most likely cause could be the alignment caster being way out of spec from a bent component making steering difficult and the steering not returning on its own. I would start checking these two items.
Have to agree with Charlson89. I bought a used E90 last year and got the service records from PO. It was brought in at 60,000 miles with a complaint of "needs new power steering". It turned out to be the lower steering binding.
