steering noise when cold

[deepstuff]

On cold start ups I get a steering noise the first few times I turn. This sounds the same as when the wheel is turned as far as it can go. IT only happens on cold starts after the car suts for a few hours.



I have a '94 318i

[drivinfaster]

does the steering feel stiff or tight when cold?? it cold be the early signs of a rack & pinion unit failing, or it could be simple as changing the fluid out. i suggest changing the fluid and adding a product called lucas power steering fluid additive. i've used this on several of the older gm units that would have sever 'morning sickness' as well as all sorts of imports. it works very well to help extend the life of a r&p unit. plus it is cheaper, too!!

oh, btw, if when you check the fluid it is very dark grey/black with shiny particles in it, then you can still use the lucas product, but the damage is done. it'll only be a matter of time before the rack will need to be replaced. the lucas stuff may help extend this amount of time, but there is no way to know for sure.

drivinfaster