Sticky Steering

Edzed · Joined: 26 Oct 2004 Posts: 22 Location: Camberley

The steering on my 2004 2.2 Z4 has developed a 'sticky' feel, making inputs a little jerky. The car has just had a major service and an MoT and nothing was picked up relating to this. I had forgotten to mention the problem at the dealers, so I guess I'm going to have to go back. It would, however, be handy to know if anyone out there has had a simialr problem and can give me an idea of what might be wrong and where I should start looking.

estocks · Joined: 04 Oct 2005 Posts: 3015

Possibly a wearing slipring?

Edzed · Joined: 26 Oct 2004 Posts: 22 Location: Camberley

Thanks. Not familiar with this. Am I right in presuming this is in the steering column? Is it a difficult item to replace?

pwo · Joined: 08 Mar 2009 Posts: 40 Location: scunthorpe

have a look on z4-forum.com as this is a common problem with early z4s . mine had it and was worse when the heater was on and it was hot . had the steering column and a sensor replaced by the local bmw dealer under warranty , it should have cost 1950 quid . now is great to drive ,

Edzed · Joined: 26 Oct 2004 Posts: 22 Location: Camberley

Thanks pwo. I've taken your advice and read the string on z4-forum.com. Wow! I had no idea this was such a common problem with early Z4's. To be honest I hadn't picked up on the fact that this generally only manifests itself in hot weather, so I'll keep an eye on this and see if mine's the same. I've had the car from new and it's no longer covered by a warranty, so I feverntly hope that BMW action a recall on this, if they don't, I guess I'm gonna have to start saving!

PVR

I had the same problem, new pump and column. Under warranty in my case, will be expensive so try for goodwill.

maxman

I have sold my Z3 with the intention of buying a 2004 3.0 Z4.The pre face lift model seems to have two major design flaws which when they go wrong cost a small fortune,ie steering colum becoming tight when hot and blocked roof drains causing roof motor to fail.
This in the long term has got to effect the values especially when it becomes more known.
Come on BMW pull your finger out and start a recall to rectify these faults.
I think i will give the Z4 a miss and go for a 2005 Honda s2000 unless i see a facelift 3.0 Z4 in my price range.

S54James · Joined: 08 Nov 2007 Posts: 90 Location: Rayleigh

Hi

I have had 2 Z4 cars both 3.0l models, and both had sticky steering due to faulty racks. If I was in the market for another z4 it would have to be a z4m purley because the M divsion dumped those electronic servo racks.

regards

Nick

MalcZ4 · Joined: 01 Sep 2010 Posts: 6 Location: Invergowrie