Rubbing noise near left steering lock

[Lewis Watson]

Noticed a rubbing noise when my steering approaches left lock.

From searching around it sounds like it might be a ball joint needing replacing. Keen to get a second opinion though.

 

[sevenfourate]

@Foxspeed ?

 

[Foxspeed]

its does sound very "dry ball jointy" type of sound

might be best jacking it up and see if it still does it with weight off the suspension....also drop off the track rods and see how the hubs pivot maybe?

 

[Lewis Watson]

Thanks for the responses guys. I really appreciate it.

When I had the car jacked up I noticed that the front offside wheel has a bit of movement in it (but not much), whereas the drivers side has no movement at all.

I didn't think to try moving the steering while it was jacked up though. I assume I'd need both front wheels in ths air for that?

Looks like some mechanical work is in order, not sure how concerned I need to be at this point though.

 

[Lewis Watson]

Just back from the mechanics. They diagnosed a loose far side steering arm. Getting it replaced under warranty next week. Hopefully that will sort it for a while.

 

[Lewis Watson]

Steering arm replaced yesterday, seems to have solved the problem. Took the car out for a b-road drive last night and the car was perfect. Long may that continue!

 

[Antti O]

What was actual part what was replaced? Track rod end? What is steering arm, i dont understand sorry..

 

[Lewis Watson]

The mechanic called it a "steering arm". After a quick internet search I think the part is more commonly known as a "wishbone suspension lower arm". If that is the case then @Foxspeed might have been correct about the ball joint being the actual cause as I think it comes with the arm.

 

[l33th3tr33]

Also known as a lower control arm, pig to replace on bmw's and I had to do it on my past 3!
Should last you a long time, hopefully that's sorted the problem.