You probably figured out the solution already but this post is for other people experiencing the same issue. The problem is the flexible coupling or "guibo". The coupling is the rubber section that connects the steering rack to the steering column. I had the same problem and once it was replaced the free play went away and the steering is nice and tight again. If you need a DIY, check E46 fanatics website.
Hey, did you end up figure out what this was? My car has the same problem...replace couple...tie rods...even steering rack...and my control arms/bushings still look good to me...I'm lost..lol. HELP! :D
Are there any knocking noise when you violently turn the steering wheel side to side? If so, most likely worn steering coupling. Had the same problem as you and it drove me nuts for 9months! Safely jack up your car and grab a hold onto the steering coupling and feel for a knock or loose play. Check out my vid!
go for Powerflex!
maximilianlindner 4 days ago
You probably figured out the solution already but this post is for other people experiencing the same issue. The problem is the flexible coupling or "guibo". The coupling is the rubber section that connects the steering rack to the steering column. I had the same problem and once it was replaced the free play went away and the steering is nice and tight again. If you need a DIY, check E46 fanatics website.
myxipitlik 3 weeks ago
did you figure it out? worn down power steering fluid?
jonplive 1 month ago
You can't figure it out cause it's normal. ESPECIAlly at 50 odd miles per hour
tomigun01NZ 9 months ago
You can't figure it out cause it's normal.
tomigun01NZ 9 months ago
Hey, did you end up figure out what this was? My car has the same problem...replace couple...tie rods...even steering rack...and my control arms/bushings still look good to me...I'm lost..lol. HELP! :D
venceslau86 11 months ago
first chech out front suspension bushings tie rods ball joints, then this1) watch?v=bTNscHbJxLA
2)watch?v=lE6_rcjYc9s&feature=related
3)watch?v=X1EyPwb8dWk&feature=related
kentau123 1 year ago
Are there any knocking noise when you violently turn the steering wheel side to side? If so, most likely worn steering coupling. Had the same problem as you and it drove me nuts for 9months! Safely jack up your car and grab a hold onto the steering coupling and feel for a knock or loose play. Check out my vid!
ttrinh9 1 year ago
bad bushings?
Zero2sixty4life 1 year ago