Ok below is information from the NHTSA (US) Of interest here, is BMW admits that (1.) They know there is a problem, (2.)they tried to fix it in July 2005, and implemented another "fix" on July 5, 2006. The problem is not electronic but rather the "WORM GEAR" is defective.
BMW stated that conditions of “sustained high temperatures, combined with long periods of intense sunlight” can cause the worm gear within the EPS system to expand causing increased friction within the system.
BMW has implemented three modifications to the steering system components in the subject vehicles in its efforts to reduce friction during high ambient temperature conditions. In mid-June 2005, BMW began producing steering systems with revised dimensional adjustments between the worm gear and worm gear shaft. These modified components, which were produced for service parts only, have lower internal friction during high ambient temperatures. On July 5, 2006, BMW implemented two additional production changes: 1) a new machining process that produces a smoother surface of the worm gear and 2) a new lubrication for the worm gear. ODI found the number of complaints and warranty claims declined significantly for model year 2006-2008 BMW Z4 vehicles built after these production changes were implemented.
My suggestion to all of you who still have warranty is to insist the dealer contact BMW and get the repair. The only acceptable repair is a new steering column.
That's what those of us in the states are doing. This steering defect is for models from 2003 - July 5, 2006.
BMW stated that conditions of “sustained high temperatures, combined with long periods of intense sunlight” can cause the worm gear within the EPS system to expand causing increased friction within the system.
BMW has implemented three modifications to the steering system components in the subject vehicles in its efforts to reduce friction during high ambient temperature conditions. In mid-June 2005, BMW began producing steering systems with revised dimensional adjustments between the worm gear and worm gear shaft. These modified components, which were produced for service parts only, have lower internal friction during high ambient temperatures. On July 5, 2006, BMW implemented two additional production changes: 1) a new machining process that produces a smoother surface of the worm gear and 2) a new lubrication for the worm gear. ODI found the number of complaints and warranty claims declined significantly for model year 2006-2008 BMW Z4 vehicles built after these production changes were implemented.
My suggestion to all of you who still have warranty is to insist the dealer contact BMW and get the repair. The only acceptable repair is a new steering column.
That's what those of us in the states are doing. This steering defect is for models from 2003 - July 5, 2006.