[dsentel]

I experience a 'loose' feeling through the steering when going over sharp bumps, both front wheels. This is more noticable at slow speeds. This feels like the wheel is loose, something needs tightened, and only felt instantaneously when hitting the bump. The steering feels quite tight otherwise while driving. I have 50K miles, and have checked for any obvious broken parts at the steering and suspension components.

This is probably pretty minor, but now that I feel it, it is driving me insane. Any ideas on what to look for?

 

[E55Cent]

I have a similar problem with my 55 and this has happened to my BMW 540i. I believe it is the control arms that are wearing out. I have just ordered both upper, lower and tie rods. This is a very common problems with these cars. The busings are made soft so the car rides smooth but they wear out very quickly.

 

[Birdman]

Worn bushes are an obvious candidate. I had mine changed when a road spring cracked, at 70000 miles. Apparently worn bushes are the normal culprit because of the heavy engine sitting over fat rubber, plus power steering.
So they say.

 

[Mariog4]

Mine was feeling very loose on the front, specially when going over uneven pavement surfaces, it was wandering all over. (Car has 102K)
I also needed new front tires, which contributed to the problem)

I just had replaced the lower control arm bushings and since we were at it, new ball joints. (You should also have the front bearings serviced or replaced).

About $240.00 parts and 5 hours labor, plus $90.00 for a 4 wheel alighnment

Not cheap, but that front end is straight and planted where it belongs.

Good luck!

Mario

 

[dsentel]

Thanks for the replies. My '91 300CE seemed to eat up the ball joints also. I just got summer tires on including an alignment, and the service center did not indicate anything being out of spec. Does anyone know how to tell when bushings or ball joints require replacement, or is it just obvious slop?

 

[chandlerGTi]

My 2001 had a similar problem and D-C replaced the whole steering rack and front suspension three times. It also squeeked under hard turning, they never did fix it. All under warranty, but at 60K it should have never done it.
If it wasn't leased/warrantied I would have replaced all the bushings like someone above mentioned. That is the most common contributor.

Good luck[]