2001 BMW X5 Heavyy and Stiff Steering

2001 BMW X5
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PSHARMA02
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Steering problem
2001 BMW X5 V6 Wheel Drive Type unknown Automatic 101594 miles
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Recently, I noticed that my power steering has diminished. It takes two hands to turn the car either to the right or left. I checked the power steering fluid and there was enough but it was brown (if that means anything) so what do I do? I was thinking either new pump or steering rack?
Dec 6, 2007 at 8:27 PM
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DOCHAGERTY
  • ✓ASE Certified Mechanic
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Power steering fluid is DEXRON ATF and is supposed to be red, bright red. If it is brown, you may have diagnosed the problem(very good work mate!) as a fluid issue. Try replacing the fluid. Repost if that does not help. Dr.Hagerty
Dec 6, 2007 at 10:35 PM
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PSHARMA02
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I checked the fluid again in the daytime, turns out it is bright reddish.. (sorry im an idiot) i guess now only things are steering rack and power steering pump. How do I know which is bad?
Dec 7, 2007 at 7:35 PM
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DOCHAGERTY
  • ✓ASE Certified Mechanic
  • 9,606 POSTS
  • ASE Certified Mechanic
Is the steering rack leaking? Pinch the boots and feel for fluid inside or poke a small hole in one of them
Dec 7, 2007 at 8:58 PM
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