Are you dealing with a stiff steering wheel in your BMW? A BMW is built to be a sporty car, and while driving such a car, one expects to have total control over the car, especially through the steering wheel, but when the steering becomes stiff or unresponsive, the fun is spoiled. One of the most frequent causes of a problematic steering wheel is a damaged power steering pump. This part enables you to rotate the wheel smoothly; when it begins to wear out, it threatens your safety and wallet.
Signs of a Defective BMW Power Steering Pump
- Stiff or Hard Steering: The most obvious symptom of a faulty power steering pump is when the steering wheel becomes very hard to turn. You may suddenly start experiencing more pull, or the steering might become more difficult to turn slowly or when maneuvering in tight spaces such as a parking lot. This issue tends to deteriorate with time, suggesting that the pump is unable to generate adequate hydraulic pressure.
- Leaking Fluid Beneath the Automobile: Power steering requires hydraulic fluid to run efficiently. If you find reddish or brownish fluid on the ground beneath the BMW, then the car may have a leak in the power steering pump, the hoses, or the connections. In general, the loss of the fluid will put more pressure on the pump and eventually cause it to fail.
- Unresponsive or Jerky Movement: Steering that jerks or feels unresponsive is another sign that the car is problematic. You may find that at certain times, the wheel rotates smoothly, and at other times, it becomes hard and jumpy. This is usually a sign of a faulty power steering pump that can hardly generate the necessary pressure.
Causes of BMW Power Steering Pump Failure
- Low or Contaminated Fluid: A number of factors can cause a power steering pump to fail, but among the most common ones is low or contaminated power steering fluid. Dirt and other particles may accumulate within the system, interfering with the fluid’s performance and wearing out the internal parts of the pump.
- Worn-out or Damaged Pump Components: Like any other car part, the power steering pump degrades with time. The internal gears, seals, and bearings may wear out due to constant use, leading to leakage and inefficiency.
- Damaged or Corroded Hoses: The power steering system has hoses responsible for transferring the hydraulic fluids. If these hoses become damaged or have cracks, the fluid pressure is reduced, and the pump has to struggle. This extra pressure increases the rate of wearout and ultimately results in failure.
- Belt or Pulley Issues: A belt or pulley connects The power steering pump to the engine. If this belt is worn, damaged, or broken, the pump will not perform as it is intended. A damaged pulley can also hinder the pump’s efficiency because it will not be able to rotate as required.
- Air Within the Power Steering System: If air gets into the power steering system through a leak or improper fluid refilling, the pump is likely to operate irregularly.
How to Repair a Defective BMW Power Steering Pump
The first thing that should be done in diagnosing a faulty power steering pump is to determine whether the fluid level is adequate. If it is low, adding the appropriate type of power steering fluid can help to enhance the performance for a while. However, if there is a leak, it must be fixed to avoid worsening the situation. Replacement is the most appropriate action when the pump is severely damaged or worn out. A new power steering pump will help to return the car’s steering to normal and become more responsive. It is advised to replace the new pump with the help of a professional mechanic to ensure that everything is installed properly.
How Heynneman European Can Help
Heynneman European is a company 
that repairs and services BMW vehicles. We are based in San Rafael, CA, but our clients can access our services from Larkspur, Kentfield, Corte, Mill Valley, San Anselmo, and Fairfax, among other areas. Whether you require a power steering pump or want your BMW checked up from top to bottom, we are here to serve you. Come to us today to book an appointment and get your BMW steering like it is supposed to again.
