Whining noise

[Janeyb]

Hi I've got a very loud whining noise and a bit of a clunk on the steering. Worse when the car is driving in a straight line or turning ro the left. Quietens down a bit when turning right.
Any ideas. Lady owner trying to keep a 2.8 z3 1999 alive and driving . Thanks in advance

 

[colb]

First thing to check are wheel bearings for the wine, then take a look at all the ball joints on the suspension see if any are worn out and have play in them, include the track rod outer and inner joints in the check.

 

[Janeyb]

Thanks for the reply. They have all been checked and are OK.The noise is worse when going forward or turning left. Not as bad when turning right. The steering is also heavier when turning left.

 

[Trevor /chedder]

Have you checked your power steering fluid?

 

[Janeyb]

No but I will Trevor. Thank you

 

[colb]

Good call by @Trevor /chedder regarding the power steering fluid. Just had a Z3 in and found the metal fluid pipe along the front of the rack is rusty and showing signs of damp fluid loss. All of the pipes both metal and rubber need looking at as well as the cooling loop in front of the radiator for leaking joints and rusty pipes developing holes. Loss of fluid or low level could be the cause of what you are experiencing. If the metal pipe needs replacing it is no longer available from BMW but @ZEDonist UK on here has had replacements made and are available on his website

Power Steering Return Pipe - 32411094452 | ZEDonist

Power Steering Return Pipe - 32411094452

www.zedonist.com