Power Steering noisy

[trackdemon]

I've just got my 318iS taxed and back on the road after a bit of time with it SORN'd, and after a precautionary oil change and replacing an exhaust hanger it seems to be running pretty well except for nasty sounds from the power steering when applying lock at idle. Any ideas why it's making this noise, and how to fix it? Is the steering pump on its way out?

[adamt93]

Well it would be loads as it is only on idle it probley ain't nothing just the power steering ain't turning fast enuff so it just makes a little noice

[trackdemon]

Ha, thought this post was dead! It seems fine when driving along, it's only at idle & only really when applying large amounts of lock. Strange...

[trackdemon]

Yes checked PS fluid level, looks fine

[Rob_farmer]

I had same problem, noisy steering wheel when stationary - fluid level was too low.

[Brianmoooore]

What sort of nasty noise? It's normal for the pump to complain a little at full lock, since the fluid pressure increases greatly when it hits the stops.

[Billwill]

What Brian said....the power steering on both my E30s complained when at full lock while at idle...sometimes causes the engine to stall!