BMW 3-series, steering fluid leak

Question

I have a 1997 bmw 3 series, and the oil for the power steering is leaking. I think i can take care of it myself, but can anyone give me a few pointers, or a walkthrough?

Answer 1

Usually a steering leak comes from any of the 3 hoses (reservoir to pump, pump to gear box, and return from gear box to reservoir).

While just replacing the clamps can work on occassions, generally you have to replace the hoses, clamps and seals.

Some people start by sucking the remaining oil in the reservoir before detaching the hoses at the pump (make sure you have a pan to catch all oil drippings), but others just detach and drain. Then just replace what needs to be replaced and tighten properly all fittings.

The bleeding procedure involves adding atf to the reservoir almost up to the brim (with  the engine off) , then turning the steering wheel approximately 6 to 7 times (end to end). Refill to slightly more than the middle mark on the reservoir, start the engine, and turn the steering wheel 12 to 16 times end to end. Top off atf level to mark on dipstick on cover.

Answer 2

I could type it all out, but just go here

http://www.dvatp.com/bmw/diy/power_steer...

Its what I used when I had a leak in my 95 m3. Turned out to be the hose clamps were just old. I suggest getting some replacement worm-gear hose clamps before you start the job. The hardest part is not making a mess. When you're done, make sure you clean everything really well so you can see if the leak comes back and where from.

Answer 3

Check the power steering belt with engine off to see if it might be too tight or loose , plus check the base and mount of the power steering pump for any leaks, also check to see if you can see any leaks or moister at the base of the pumps pulley bec that tell you the pump itself needs replacing.One more common problem is that the pumps hose or hose clamps are leaking, if you do end up changing any hoses be sure to replace them with new clamps always.Make sure you trace both ends of the hoses and check for leaks or hoses too soft or cracked etc.

Try also running the vehicle with the low fluid level in the power steering pump and listening to the pump , then add to proper level and listen to the pump bec that basically can tell you that the pump itself is going.Usually if the sound starts to be the same even when pump has full levels of fluids that means time soon to change pump.

Hope that helps and best of luck.By the way check under the vehicle after parking on dry surfaces to see if you can spot any such leakage and if you call around to the big do it yourself etc auto wreckers I'm sure you can find a good used pump or the whole assembly cheap if you need it too.