noises from my steering column :(

[chris531]

i have a 95 325td and i get a horrid creaking and grinding noise from what seems to be behind the steering wheel, this is also accompanied by very stiff steering,
has anyone any ideas on what the problem is, any help is greatly appreciated.

 

[m5runner]

maybe a ball joint is worn or lower control arm. check underneath while in park.

 

[Joe_31]

I have the same kind of noise and it feels like I can move the wheel a little side to side before the wheels move but it only feels like it is in the colume not at the wheels...

I don't think it is the ball joints though. I just had the tye rods done like a month ago and they said the front end was good.

 

[chris531]

problem sorted

thanx for your comments, i took it to a m8 who loves 3 series, all he did was lubricate the spring on the end of the steering column in the engine bay. this cured it, apparently it drys out and makes a horrid noise and stiffens the steering right up,
all he did was use some penertrating oil and gear lube, it worked a treat, easy and cheap fix.

 

[andreyiv]

I just noticed that I have the same problem and just because I was bored I found this thread. Its great that I'll be able to fix it, thanks chris531.