[adr1974]

So a few weeks ago I noticed (for lack of a better description) 'patches of resistance' when turning my wheel (mostly to the left). It doesn't happen every time I turn left, and for the most part it's pretty subtle, but there's definitely a brief second where, when turning left, I feel like I need to exert slightly more than normal amount of effort. This morning when I pulled into the parking space it was noticeably worse -- almost felt like the wheel was going to lock up on me for a second, but it didn't.

I made an appointment to have my car serviced, but in the interim, has anyone ever dealt with something like this, or have any idea what it might be?

Thanks,

Adam

PS shit -- just realized I posted this in the xi section -- apologies...

[Ph0zenstone]

Perhaps you have heavy wheels? I find it harder to turn when driving on 19's then the oem 17's

[adr1974]

I didn't do a great job explaining it. Say the wheel is perfectly centered, and I turn it 90 degrees to the left. Right around 45 degrees, I'll feel a bit more resistance, and then it feels normal again. Definitely wasn't this way when I got the car.

[jzchen]

I'd have to say power steering pump. Are you getting any noises from the engine? It's funny that the manuals don't tell you how to check the level of the power steering fluid. They tell how to check the coolant, which after figuring out how to do it, I had to syphon out probably 8 oz. to reach the full mark!

[adr1974]

No engine noises that I've noticed so far...

[Taxvictim]

Power steering fluid too low, or the pump is failing. What you're describing happened to me on an older car. It's kind of scary to think it might freeze up, but you can still steer even if it fails completely. It's just really tough. Get it checked ASAP. If it fails in the middle of a turn, you could end up in a real mess.

Overall, the 328xi, has a reputation in reviews and from experience as having less power assist in steering than other models. It can be a little annoying trying to do a lot of maneuvering in a parking lot, but I don't notice it at all once out on the road.

[adr1974]

Very much appreciate the help, guys.

[jzchen]

Squealing noises would indicate a loose engine belt. This can happen if someone had to move or replace the power steering pump, or any component connected by the same belt. It is sounding more and more like the pump, if the fluid level is alright that is. I really doubt it is being caused by a low fluid level though unless you can see some kind of leak?

Originally Posted by adr1974

No engine noises that I've noticed so far...

[cluejunior]

I experience pull on the wheel when coming to a complete stop. I don't recall it happening before I had brakes and rotors done. The wheel tracks left and back right when stopping below five/ten miles an hour. However, when driving the steering is just butter. I am in love with the way this car handles. '06 325xi

Actually, every few weeks the car will want to drift on the highway and it takes extra force to fight this tendency. I dismissed it as gusty winds those days but im not too certain this is the case. hope it helps.

[qwertyb22]

Originally Posted by cluejunior

I experience pull on the wheel when coming to a complete stop. I don't recall it happening before I had brakes and rotors done. The wheel tracks left and back right when stopping below five/ten miles an hour. However, when driving the steering is just butter. I am in love with the way this car handles. '06 325xi

Actually, every few weeks the car will want to drift on the highway and it takes extra force to fight this tendency. I dismissed it as gusty winds those days but im not too certain this is the case. hope it helps.

I have the same sensation after putting 161s on. Wasnt there with the 156s... I attributed it to the wider tires on uneven road surfaces, but not really sure. Its totally variable when it happens, although seems to always happen at the same stop-lights and highways, so a bit confusing.