Squeeling in the steering rack?

Tiny
CHRISTOPHER SA
  • MEMBER
  • 1993 BMW 320I
  • 2.0L
  • 6 CYL
  • 2WD
  • MANUAL
  • 125,000 MILES
When I turn the steering wheel to the extreme left there is a squeal that comes from the steering rack. This only happens at the farthest turn of the steering wheel and all I do is back off slightly to stop the squealing. Is this a problem?
Sunday, June 15th, 2025 AT 2:25 PM

3 Replies

Tiny
STEVE W.
  • MECHANIC
  • 14,798 POSTS
Not a problem. What you are hearing is the squeal from the pressure relief valve in the steering system The pump produces hydraulic pressure to assist with the steering. As you move the wheel the pressure changes based off of pump speed and how it is valved. The idea being that at lower speeds you get more assist for maneuvering, like in a parking lot moving slow, and less at higher speeds. When you turn the wheel to the stops the pump is still producing pressure and it has no where to go because the selector spool in the valving is blocked. To prevent pump damage the relief valve opens and you hear the squeal of that along with some belt squeal because the pump is trying to produce so much pressure. As soon as you let off a bit, the pressure can now return through the rack and that lowers it so the pump isn't trying to stop and no squealing. It isn't something to worry about unless you plan on setting there for 5 minutes with it bypassing.
Was this
answer
helpful?
Yes
No
Sunday, June 15th, 2025 AT 7:16 PM
Tiny
CHRISTOPHER SA
  • MEMBER
  • 253 POSTS
Ok. Thanks for the clarification.
Was this
answer
helpful?
Yes
No
Sunday, June 15th, 2025 AT 7:39 PM
Tiny
STEVE W.
  • MECHANIC
  • 14,798 POSTS
You are welcome.
Was this
answer
helpful?
Yes
No
Monday, June 16th, 2025 AT 5:48 AM

Please login or register to post a reply.