power steering squeak

[stereotemps]

My 318i when on full lock either left or right theres a loud squeaking noise, is it the power steering belt? its not affecting the steering at all just really annoying is there anyway of stopping it, change/tighten belt is this easy 2 do. any help would be great. andy

[mrLEE30]

this is perfectly normal.

you should not apply full lock for more than a few seconds, and never while stationary...why?? the power steering pump is attempting to pump fluid into a closed system (as the steering box is up against the steering stops) thus the pressure builds up until the point where the resistance of the belt on the pulley is overcome and the belt slips on the pulley - this is the sqealing you hear. this produces tremendous strain on the hydraulic system as it is subjected to higher pressure then needed, the result is leaks/burst pipes/broken steering box/knackered pump (take your pic).

mrlee

[stereotemps]

thanks 4 your quick reply mr lee, it only ever happens when parking and during tight manouvers etc where full lock is sometimes a must, glad theres nothing 2 worry about and its normal, is this something that happens with the age of the car? had the car 5 years and i cannot remember it always being like this and it seems to have got louder more recently, i will keep your advice in mind. thanks again