Steering System - BMW 1999-2005 M3 Service Manual

Steering and Wheel Alignment
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Steering system

The variable-assist power steering
system consists of an engine-driven
hydraulic pump, a rack-and-pinion
steering rack assembly with an integral
hydraulic control valve, and connecting
linkage to the road wheels.
At low speeds, maximum power assist
is provided to ease parking and city
driving. At high speeds, assist is
reduced to ensure stability. The power
steering system varies assist based on
engine speed.
Power assist is provided by a
belt-driven pump on the lower left front
of the engine, just below the alternator.
The steering rack is bolted to the front
subframe underneath the engine. The
steering wheel connects to the rack via
a telescoping column which
incorporates a rubber coupling
("guibo") to dampen vibration and
noise.
The power steering fluid is fed from the
fluid reservoir to the pump and to the
rack via rubber/metal hoses. The return
2/25/2009 10:28 PM