Steering clunk when straight

2000 BMW 528
273,000 MILES • 2.8L • 6 CYL • 2WD • AUTOMATIC
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JEEPSTER1997
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  • 4 POSTS
Car listed above is a 528i. My steering wheel has a big clunk and steering drift when the wheel is straight. The problem disappears when I turn either left or right. The issue occurs at all speeds. I replaced the front struts, the tires are less than 4 months old.
Sep 5, 2020 at 9:12 PM
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ASEMASTER6371
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  • 52,796 POSTS
Good morning,

Can you upload a video of the noise for me to hear?

Do you hear it in the steering wheel itself or in the steering system under the car?

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-car-steering-works

Roy
Sep 5, 2020 at 9:15 PM
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JEEPSTER1997
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I don't have a video, but will try later. I feel it in the steering wheel and pedals, and the sound comes from the front end.
Sep 5, 2020 at 9:18 PM
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ASEMASTER6371
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  • 52,796 POSTS
Okay, I will look forward to seeing and hearing the video so I can help you.

Roy
Sep 5, 2020 at 9:19 PM
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JEEPSTER1997
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Good morning, and thank you for your help. I'm attaching a video of the issue. After driving it again, I can say the sound seems to come from the passenger side of the car. The issue doesn't seem to appear until I travel over 30 mph. And it is in the spot where the steering wheel is straight, but pulls toward the right (alignment issue which was present when I bought the car, and not when this noise started). This issue only started after I replaced the struts (quick strut assembly, with new coils and top mounts).
Video (Click to enlarge)
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Sep 5, 2020 at 9:41 PM
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ASEMASTER6371
  • ✓Experienced Mechanic
  • 52,796 POSTS
Okay, I attached a picture of the steering for you.

Check the wheel for play side to side with it jacked off the ground. It sounds like either the inner tie rod end or the out may be worn out.

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/tie-rod-end-replacement

Also, check and make sure the steering rack it self is not moving as well.

If the mounts are worn, it will cause this issue.

Roy
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Sep 5, 2020 at 9:48 PM
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