Newbie with E89 power steering problems

[Zforbes]

I've had this light ping up a few times over the bank holiday weekend, my battery is 10yrs old and although no issues with starting or anything I have had a few pings regarding battery drain so I've ordered a new battery for collection this aft.

The plan is - collect battery, read steering codes, fit battery, register, clear codes and see if it makes a difference.

Whilst I live in hope, I honestly expect to get the warning light again and get it refurb'd by ECUTesting

[wanatkinson]

Well, I've just replaced the battery (voltage was ok but needed charging - since I'd just driven several hundred miles and the alternator checked out, I just replaced it) and the steering problem is still there. I'll need to phone my BMW garage and see what they say. I'll mention refurb by by ecutesting but it's still going to be painful (I don't have the space, tools or inclination to do it myself...).

[Pbondar]

Here you go...problem fixed..simple..

https://www.ecutesting.com/common-fault ... ack-motor/

[Owdgit]

I doubt a BMW dealer will do the refurb.
For me the turnaround was roughly a week from sending to getting the motor back, sent on Monday back in the car Friday. You could be hard pushed to find a dealer or indy that will tie up a part of their workshop for that length of time.
Not sure if you can get a refurb unit in advance and return yours for a credit afterwards?
The removal and refitting is fairly straightforward if you're confident with a bit of spannering.
Depending on where you live you may be able to find someone on here that could help, the offer of some 'refreshments' as an incentive or a donation to the forum?
I would be happy to help with instructions and the use of my tools and garage after all the advice and help I've gotten from here, I'd get you doing the work yourself so you gain experience.

[Sllimc]

Hi I have the electric steering fault and I am looking to remove the motor and send it to ecutesting. The video on removal is good but how about refitting and getting the correct belt tension. Or is it pre set due to no movement in the bolts

[Zforbes]

Hi I have the electric steering fault and I am looking to remove the motor and send it to ecutesting. The video on removal is good but how about refitting and getting the correct belt tension. Or is it pre set due to no movement in the bolts

I think that is why they mention marking the position of the rotation when releasing tension, just wind it back to the marks

[Sllimc]

Thanks for the comment. I have just watched the video again and you can see the tension change, may have been more obvious if the motor bolts had still been in place

[Zforbes]

Thanks for the comment. I have just watched the video again and you can see the tension change, may have been more obvious if the motor bolts had still been in place

Not always obvious at first sight - good luck with the removal

[Sllimc]

Also I have been looking at the space on the sub frame can the motor be removed without removing the rack from the car.

[Zforbes]

Also I have been looking at the space on the sub frame can the motor be removed without removing the rack from the car.

Yes, you need to be on axle stands or lifted via jacking points somehow, doesn't have to be too high as long as you can drop the undertray and access the bolts / locking rings. Be careful though to release it far enough so it comes out without damaging the helix gear you was worried about the tension. Once up in the air allowing for movement of the wheels should be off in 20-30 mins.

Dont try on ramps though you'll need the wheels to be free

[Owdgit]

Hiya, just sent you a PM