32 90... Troubleshooting on electric steering gear (EPS)

WARNING: This page does not describe the selected car, but rather 6 other vehicles, including the 2013 BMW 128i, 2012 BMW 128i, 2011 BMW 128i, 2010 BMW 128i, and 2009 BMW 128i. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Read fault memory.

TROUBLESHOOTING CHART

Fault	Cause	Remedy
Failure of power-assisted steering / clear reduction of power-assisted steering when stationary	Contacts corroded	NOTE: Check insulation of connecting cable for damage, replace part if necessary Replace contacts and plug housing Clean contacts on steering gear, replace steering gear if necessary
	2. Insulation of connecting cable damaged	Check insulation of connecting cable for damage, replace part if necessary
	Refer to TROUBLESHOOTING on front axle
Excessive steering wheel play/steering wheel shake	Screws at lower section of steering spindle to steering gear/steering column loose	Replace screws and tighten down (refer to Removing and installing/replacing lower section of steering spindle )
	Journal of tie rod end deformed	Replace steering gear and tie rod ends
	Tie rod end worn	Check steering gear rack; if necessary, replace steering gear
		Check tie rod ends , replace if necessary
		Replace tie rod ends
	Steering gear rack damaged	Replace steering gear
	Refer to TROUBLESHOOTING on front axle
Steering wheel inclination	Refer to BMW diagnosis system "Troubleshooting tree wheel/chassis alignment check"
Steering wheel inclination	refer to TROUBLESHOOTING on front axle
Vehicle pulls	Steering angle sensor adjustment failed	Carry out STEERING ANGLE SENSOR ADJUSTMENT
Vehicle pulls	Steering column switch cluster faulty	Check mounting for steering column switch , replace if necessary. See 61 31 006 REMOVING AND INSTALLING/REPLACING FIXTURE FOR STEERING COLUMN STALK (CONVERTIBLE) or 61 31 006 REMOVING AND INSTALLING/REPLACING FIXTURE FOR STEERING COLUMN STALK (COUPE) .
Interference noise when steering through (under load)	Spindle surface dirty or corroded (caused by damaged gaiter)	Replace steering gear

NOTE: In a warranty case you must always provide a fault memory printout, even where there is no fault memory entry, with the defective part.