Vague steering on a 330 E46

[CIS121]

This is my second problem in as many months!

The steering has been starting to feel not quite right.

It's hard to put my finger on, but certainly when getting up towards 100, it starts to feel less stable than it did. It also has a funny habit of going light and unpredictable on teh power, almost like a bit of torque steer.

Something is up, but it's pretty subtle and I don't think I could explin it very well to a garage.

Has anyone had any similar problems? Any ideas greatly appreciated please!

[CIS121]

Hi folks,

It's a non sport model, I've checked the tyre pressures which are all fine and it's got 68,000 miles.

I've maintained the used car warranty but am dubious that worn suspension is covered as I thought suspension was excluded after 60,000 miles. DOes anyone know as if it isn't covered, I'll go to an independant to get it looked at?

Edited by CIS121 on Thursday 17th January 07:43

[CIS121]

Do things like the bushes wearing out tend to be covered under teh used car warranty beyond 60000 miles?

[CIS121]

Vorix - sounds similar. Please let me know what they find. I will take mine in, but finding it very hard to fit in currently.

[CIS121]

8Tech said:

This problem is very, very common on the E46. It is seldom necessary to replace the lower arms but always necessary to renew the front lower arm rear bushes. I always use new poly bushes for this and it is a straight forward job, not even requiring the removal of the lower arms.
Note there are 2 bush sizes available, 40 mm and 44 mm (I believe) so you will need to measure them before you order.
The new bushes just replace the old ones in the "Lollipop" mount at the rear of the arm.
Will eliminate the problem and tighten up the steering nicely.

8Tech.

Hi,

Thanks for the info. I usually replace my own brake discs and pads and have no issue with this level of getting hands dirty. Are the bushes actually much harder? I know some bits of the supsension need specialist kit and huge forces to replace parts.