Steering wheel creak noise

MilosSlovakia · 06-06-2020, 02:12 PM

Hello,

I did not find any similar problem to mine

, so I am trying my luck.

I have 2 000 miles on my 2020 G05 and after another problems (changed panel with idrive controller and creaking back left doors when riding over bumps - this is still not solved) I have another issue.

When the car is hot - so not after starting in cold garage, but on the way back or after the car is more on sun, my steering wheel began to creak when turning. The noise is directly from the steering column behind the wheel. Please, check the video:

Please, is there anyone with similar problem? It is going me crazy to still visit the dealer, I am starting to be angry with the built quality.

Thanks

Frenetic · 06-06-2020, 02:49 PM

That’s a common problem in newer Audi’s and their steering racks/columns (I use to own an Audi). It was either the grommet at the firewall that would rub and squeak or the electromechanical motor. Lubrication solutions always seemed temporary and the problem would come right back.

The only full proof solution that permanently got rid of the problem (based on forum reports): replacing the entire steering column...

James_G0540i · 06-07-2020, 02:21 AM

Not as bad as yours, but for the last few months my steering has been makes a whining high-pitched screeching sound when its turned around 30 degrees from center - both directions.It almost sounds like metal on metal screeching, you can hear it from inside and even more outside. It continues for around another 10-15 degrees of turn then disappears.

So you're not alone !....off to the dealer this week to get it looked at.

Seriously, BMW has some "amateur" issues with this car. The car has been perfect to date, and this one surfaced just before we went into lockdown, and haven't taken it to the dealer yet.

This is my 2nd G05, as the first was a "Lemon" so I returned it and got a new one (with a $$$ penalty too). I'm getting sick of the QC issues with these G05's, maybe time to look at a GLE or something else.

MilosSlovakia · 06-07-2020, 03:24 AM

When the car is cold, I can barely notice the rubbing sound. But after parking on the sun, it is like that. Definitely rubber on rubber sound... I do not understand how this is possible on 90 kEUR car...I also wrote to the dealer for maintenance and will update about suggested solution (hopefully permanent solution).

Carneylad · 06-11-2020, 02:54 PM

Hello.

Same issue with my M50d. It was an intermittent squeak/grinding noise. Brought it to the dealership a few months ago but it didn't make the sound that day, naturally.

I had another issue which was a leak from my sky lounge roof so I booked the car in yesterday to get that looked at...

Long story short. They found the issue with the squeaky steering. Turns out a heat shield was rubbing against the steering rack somewhere. BMW deemed it a safety issue so wouldn't release the car as it needs a full steering system replacement.
The factory has been closed so there's a global shortage on parts now. End result, my car will be in the garage for a minimum of "weeks" but possibly months. They don't have a replacement car available so a hire car company will call me shortly. This'll be an expensive issue for BMW to sort by the time all's said and done.

StuartN57 · 06-20-2020, 06:45 AM

Hi All

My X5, delivered Nov 2019 has this steering column noise as well. Family lol saying it's caught groanavirus. It was funny at first; not anymore. It's getting worse. Started in Feb at around 5/6k miles, then lockdown kicked in so it hasn't been an issue, car only used for local journeys of a few miles. Noise only presents itself after a journey of at least 25 miles depending on ambient temp. Just running engine to its normal operating temp, 10-12 miles, will not cause the noise to kick in. It seems as though components in the engine bay have to be hot. But if the vehicle is parked for 30 mins or so the noise disappears. Re-commence the journey and after 10 miles or so, after things have warmed again, the groanavirus returns. Fortunately most of my mileage is in a straight line.

I amplified the sound on Milo's YouTube post and it's exactly the same. In a couple of weeks time the car goes in to the dealer and I'll be taking my recording me. Otherwise they will just drive it around the block once and say they can't replicate the problem.

I'll post the outcome; hoping its not the same as Carneylad but it probably is. It sounds in the vehicle as though the noise comes from the top of the steering column but if you lift the hood and someone turns the wheel then it seems to originate from where the column enters the steering rack.

Keep safe everyone
StuartN57

MilosSlovakia · 06-24-2020, 01:10 PM

Hi,

so I have some updates, maybe it will help. It seems, that creaking noise issue is not common in Central Europe, as in Slovakia I was 1st one with this issue.

But, after lubricating the rubbers in steering column, which did not help, I was returned the car with word, it is OK now. The day after, I made 40 kilometers on sun and went to the dealership to camera the issue. It was clearly visible from the inside and also from the bottom of the car. The issue was reported to Germany and they admit the problem and now, whole steering column is going to be replaced. I suppose, based on the previous posts, this will help.

So, lubricating is not resolving the issue, column needs to be replaced. I will keep U informed.

Milos

StuartN57 · 07-17-2020, 08:28 AM

After a couple of days speaking with BMW technical my dealer fitted a new steering rack. Had to come from Munich but arrived and fitted within a coupe of days. Noise gone and dealer updated software to latest available version at the same time.

Alan l. · 08-06-2020, 08:39 AM

Sounds like some of you guys could be having this issue....

Recall for X5/X6M
https://g05.bimmerpost.com/forums/sh....php?t=1746163

Littletino · 08-31-2020, 10:43 AM

I brought mine in with the same noise this morning. After the tech checked it out , my service agent informed me it needs the new steering rack. 10-14 days from Germany.

MilosSlovakia · 11-03-2020, 01:43 AM

Hi all,

I have update from this issue. Dealer replaced my electric steering when I had 4000 km based on the sounds as shown in first video.

BUT.....after another 4000 kms when turning the steering wheel in low radius the car somewhere from the I assume right down side started to produce click sounds as attached on the youtube video. Most noticeable when steering wheel is in end positions, but also in other positions. This clicking is noticeable also directly in steering wheel and when you touch rims....very annoying.

I was at the dealer, who made a video and sent to importer. Immediately they replaced electric steering AGAIN and returned the car with the SAME unchanged sound. I was at another dealer who also was not able to find the issue. Checked X5M and X5 on air suspension - no issue there. Checked another x5 40i on Msuspension - also this sound but much, much less noticeale.

Is here anyone, please, as I really do not know what to do now, who had the same issue and resolved it???? What is making these sounds?

Thank you

rob.tunnelling · 10-24-2022, 07:21 AM

Purchased a 2019 X5 back in June and immediately noticed the same squeaking as posted by MilosSlovakia. Similar symptoms as well, not from cold, but after about 30 minutes of running the engine - you could almost set your watch by it.
Returned to the dealer and told them to take out for a good test drive. They returned after about 30 minutes and agreed that this was a very loud and intrusive noise. BMW wanted them to run a few more tests with a stethoscope and some other bits of kit before returning a verdict of 'Replacement rack required'. Interestingly at this point it was advised that the vehicle (despite very low mileage) had already had 1 replacement steering rack.
Almost unbelievably, some components from the steering rack are manufactured in Ukraine (I am told) and I am now on a waiting list. Courtesy car has been provided (2022 745Le - and has been used for the last few months), but BMW are no closer to knowing when a replacement rack is due in stock. I am advised there are a few vehicles in the queue (although I am the only X5).
Strange to have such a fault on a range of BMW models (X3, X4, X5, 3 Series and 4 Series as far as I am told).

-Vanguard- · 10-24-2022, 11:18 AM

BMW has always had dogshit steering racks since I can remember. It was like a bmw thing you knew would come up sooner or later.

All 3 BMWs ive had required new steering racks for various reason.

Duke24 · 10-24-2022, 03:40 PM

My MY22 has this issue as well. Exactly as previously stated, only can hear it after driven for a little while.

Is this an urgent repair? Is it safe to still drive and wait a few months before taking to dealer? Or is it better to be addressed sooner rather than later? Am I damaging anything else further if I were to wait?

TIA!

White340 · 11-23-2022, 10:05 AM

Anyone have a definitive solution to this? Mine is at the dealer right now and they might replace the steering rack - awaiting BMW's approval for it. Just want to see if this was able to fix the problem for those that had it done.

E91toG05 · 02-12-2023, 08:11 AM

Pinging to see if there is an update on this one and a definite fix. I don’t drive on long drives often but when I do - this happens….

E91toG05 · 02-19-2023, 08:30 PM

Checking…. Starting to bug me.

Guy Fleegman · 05-21-2023, 09:19 AM

My 2022 45e has developed a similar issue, just in the past few days. This is a low grinding noise coming from the steering column. Unlike other posted reports, it happens ONLY when I start the car and the wheel adjusts to driving position. It's quiet as a mouse while driving and makes no sound when the car is turned off.

E91toG05 · 08-07-2023, 12:30 PM

I am finally bringing in my 2022 45e with the issue later this week (squeaking noise when steering at low speeds after car is hot/warmed up). First trip to dealer in 14 months for any issue other than the free oil change. Any tips or updated thinking on the steering issue? Based on the X5 and X7 chats, it seems to be fairly common and the fix involves a replacement rack...? Happy to learn from those that have had this fixed. Thanks!

bagd0003 · 08-07-2023, 08:23 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Guy Fleegman

My 2022 45e has developed a similar issue, just in the past few days. This is a low grinding noise coming from the steering column. Unlike other posted reports, it happens ONLY when I start the car and the wheel adjusts to driving position. It's quiet as a mouse while driving and makes no sound when the car is turned off.

I believe sib 32 04 20 addresses your issue.

Guy Fleegman · 08-08-2023, 08:45 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by bagd0003

I believe sib 32 04 20 addresses your issue.

Thank you. I have an appt with the dealer later this week. I'll report back when I have some more information.

Guy Fleegman · 08-12-2023, 04:42 PM

The dealer consulted with the BMW engineers who recommended regreasing the steering column. That resolved the issue, at least for now.

NOTE: The groaning noise in my vehicle only occurred when the steering wheel extended into driving position, as when starting the car. It made no noise at any other time and otherwise functioned normally. But it was quite loud.

06-06-2020, 02:12 PM	#1
MilosSlovakia New Member 4 Rep 5 Posts Drives: BMW X5 40i (2020, G05), BMW520 Join Date: Jun 2020 Location: Slovakia iTrader: (0)	Steering wheel creak noise Hello, I did not find any similar problem to mine , so I am trying my luck. I have 2 000 miles on my 2020 G05 and after another problems (changed panel with idrive controller and creaking back left doors when riding over bumps - this is still not solved) I have another issue. When the car is hot - so not after starting in cold garage, but on the way back or after the car is more on sun, my steering wheel began to creak when turning. The noise is directly from the steering column behind the wheel. Please, check the video: Please, is there anyone with similar problem? It is going me crazy to still visit the dealer, I am starting to be angry with the built quality. Thanks
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06-06-2020, 02:49 PM	#2
Frenetic PANIC! 482 Rep 823 Posts Drives: 2020 X5 M50i Join Date: Jun 2019 Location: Costco iTrader: (0)	That’s a common problem in newer Audi’s and their steering racks/columns (I use to own an Audi). It was either the grommet at the firewall that would rub and squeak or the electromechanical motor. Lubrication solutions always seemed temporary and the problem would come right back. The only full proof solution that permanently got rid of the problem (based on forum reports): replacing the entire steering column...
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06-07-2020, 02:21 AM	#3
James_G0540i Captain 446 Rep 810 Posts Drives: 2021 X5 G05 40i M Sport Join Date: Sep 2019 Location: Melbourne, Australia iTrader: (0)	Not as bad as yours, but for the last few months my steering has been makes a whining high-pitched screeching sound when its turned around 30 degrees from center - both directions.It almost sounds like metal on metal screeching, you can hear it from inside and even more outside. It continues for around another 10-15 degrees of turn then disappears. So you're not alone !....off to the dealer this week to get it looked at. Seriously, BMW has some "amateur" issues with this car. The car has been perfect to date, and this one surfaced just before we went into lockdown, and haven't taken it to the dealer yet. This is my 2nd G05, as the first was a "Lemon" so I returned it and got a new one (with a $$$ penalty too). I'm getting sick of the QC issues with these G05's, maybe time to look at a GLE or something else. Last edited by James_G0540i; 06-07-2020 at 02:26 AM..
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06-07-2020, 03:24 AM	#4
MilosSlovakia New Member 4 Rep 5 Posts Drives: BMW X5 40i (2020, G05), BMW520 Join Date: Jun 2020 Location: Slovakia iTrader: (0)	When the car is cold, I can barely notice the rubbing sound. But after parking on the sun, it is like that. Definitely rubber on rubber sound... I do not understand how this is possible on 90 kEUR car...I also wrote to the dealer for maintenance and will update about suggested solution (hopefully permanent solution).
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06-11-2020, 02:54 PM	#5
Carneylad Private 70 Rep 98 Posts Drives: G05 M50d, Tesla Model 3 Join Date: Jan 2020 Location: Glasgow, Scotland iTrader: (0)	Hello. Same issue with my M50d. It was an intermittent squeak/grinding noise. Brought it to the dealership a few months ago but it didn't make the sound that day, naturally. I had another issue which was a leak from my sky lounge roof so I booked the car in yesterday to get that looked at... Long story short. They found the issue with the squeaky steering. Turns out a heat shield was rubbing against the steering rack somewhere. BMW deemed it a safety issue so wouldn't release the car as it needs a full steering system replacement. The factory has been closed so there's a global shortage on parts now. End result, my car will be in the garage for a minimum of "weeks" but possibly months. They don't have a replacement car available so a hire car company will call me shortly. This'll be an expensive issue for BMW to sort by the time all's said and done.
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06-20-2020, 06:45 AM	#6
StuartN57 New Member 0 Rep 9 Posts Drives: F32 435d Join Date: Oct 2017 Location: East Midlands iTrader: (0)	Groanavirus Hi All My X5, delivered Nov 2019 has this steering column noise as well. Family lol saying it's caught groanavirus. It was funny at first; not anymore. It's getting worse. Started in Feb at around 5/6k miles, then lockdown kicked in so it hasn't been an issue, car only used for local journeys of a few miles. Noise only presents itself after a journey of at least 25 miles depending on ambient temp. Just running engine to its normal operating temp, 10-12 miles, will not cause the noise to kick in. It seems as though components in the engine bay have to be hot. But if the vehicle is parked for 30 mins or so the noise disappears. Re-commence the journey and after 10 miles or so, after things have warmed again, the groanavirus returns. Fortunately most of my mileage is in a straight line. I amplified the sound on Milo's YouTube post and it's exactly the same. In a couple of weeks time the car goes in to the dealer and I'll be taking my recording me. Otherwise they will just drive it around the block once and say they can't replicate the problem. I'll post the outcome; hoping its not the same as Carneylad but it probably is. It sounds in the vehicle as though the noise comes from the top of the steering column but if you lift the hood and someone turns the wheel then it seems to originate from where the column enters the steering rack. Keep safe everyone StuartN57
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06-24-2020, 01:10 PM	#7
MilosSlovakia New Member 4 Rep 5 Posts Drives: BMW X5 40i (2020, G05), BMW520 Join Date: Jun 2020 Location: Slovakia iTrader: (0)	Hi, so I have some updates, maybe it will help. It seems, that creaking noise issue is not common in Central Europe, as in Slovakia I was 1st one with this issue. But, after lubricating the rubbers in steering column, which did not help, I was returned the car with word, it is OK now. The day after, I made 40 kilometers on sun and went to the dealership to camera the issue. It was clearly visible from the inside and also from the bottom of the car. The issue was reported to Germany and they admit the problem and now, whole steering column is going to be replaced. I suppose, based on the previous posts, this will help. So, lubricating is not resolving the issue, column needs to be replaced. I will keep U informed. Milos
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07-17-2020, 08:28 AM	#8
StuartN57 New Member 0 Rep 9 Posts Drives: F32 435d Join Date: Oct 2017 Location: East Midlands iTrader: (0)	After a couple of days speaking with BMW technical my dealer fitted a new steering rack. Had to come from Munich but arrived and fitted within a coupe of days. Noise gone and dealer updated software to latest available version at the same time.
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08-06-2020, 08:39 AM	#9
Alan l. Major General 5453 Rep 8,815 Posts Drives: 2020 F95 X5M Competition Join Date: Jun 2009 Location: United States iTrader: (9)	Sounds like some of you guys could be having this issue.... Recall for X5/X6M https://g05.bimmerpost.com/forums/sh....php?t=1746163 __________________
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08-31-2020, 10:43 AM	#10
Littletino Registered 2 Rep 4 Posts Drives: BMW X5, Audi S7, Ferrari F430 Join Date: Sep 2019 Location: GA iTrader: (0)	I brought mine in with the same noise this morning. After the tech checked it out , my service agent informed me it needs the new steering rack. 10-14 days from Germany.
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11-03-2020, 01:43 AM	#11
MilosSlovakia New Member 4 Rep 5 Posts Drives: BMW X5 40i (2020, G05), BMW520 Join Date: Jun 2020 Location: Slovakia iTrader: (0)	Hi all, I have update from this issue. Dealer replaced my electric steering when I had 4000 km based on the sounds as shown in first video. BUT.....after another 4000 kms when turning the steering wheel in low radius the car somewhere from the I assume right down side started to produce click sounds as attached on the youtube video. Most noticeable when steering wheel is in end positions, but also in other positions. This clicking is noticeable also directly in steering wheel and when you touch rims....very annoying. I was at the dealer, who made a video and sent to importer. Immediately they replaced electric steering AGAIN and returned the car with the SAME unchanged sound. I was at another dealer who also was not able to find the issue. Checked X5M and X5 on air suspension - no issue there. Checked another x5 40i on Msuspension - also this sound but much, much less noticeale. Is here anyone, please, as I really do not know what to do now, who had the same issue and resolved it???? What is making these sounds? Thank you
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10-24-2022, 07:21 AM	#12
rob.tunnelling Registered 0 Rep 1 Posts Drives: BMW X5 G05 Join Date: Oct 2022 Location: London iTrader: (0)	X5 G05 Steering Rack Squeak/Creak Purchased a 2019 X5 back in June and immediately noticed the same squeaking as posted by MilosSlovakia. Similar symptoms as well, not from cold, but after about 30 minutes of running the engine - you could almost set your watch by it. Returned to the dealer and told them to take out for a good test drive. They returned after about 30 minutes and agreed that this was a very loud and intrusive noise. BMW wanted them to run a few more tests with a stethoscope and some other bits of kit before returning a verdict of 'Replacement rack required'. Interestingly at this point it was advised that the vehicle (despite very low mileage) had already had 1 replacement steering rack. Almost unbelievably, some components from the steering rack are manufactured in Ukraine (I am told) and I am now on a waiting list. Courtesy car has been provided (2022 745Le - and has been used for the last few months), but BMW are no closer to knowing when a replacement rack is due in stock. I am advised there are a few vehicles in the queue (although I am the only X5). Strange to have such a fault on a range of BMW models (X3, X4, X5, 3 Series and 4 Series as far as I am told).
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10-24-2022, 11:18 AM	#13
-Vanguard- Lieutenant Colonel 1178 Rep 1,502 Posts Drives: 2021 X6M Competition Join Date: Dec 2020 Location: NY iTrader: (0)	BMW has always had dogshit steering racks since I can remember. It was like a bmw thing you knew would come up sooner or later. All 3 BMWs ive had required new steering racks for various reason.
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10-24-2022, 03:40 PM	#14
Duke24 New Member 29 Rep 28 Posts Drives: 2023 X5 xDrive 45e Join Date: Apr 2022 Location: USA iTrader: (0) Garage List 2023 BMW X5 xDrive45e [9.00]	My MY22 has this issue as well. Exactly as previously stated, only can hear it after driven for a little while. Is this an urgent repair? Is it safe to still drive and wait a few months before taking to dealer? Or is it better to be addressed sooner rather than later? Am I damaging anything else further if I were to wait? TIA!
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11-23-2022, 10:05 AM	#15
White340 Lieutenant Colonel 1393 Rep 1,986 Posts Drives: 2018 M3 Comp / 2022 X5 45e Join Date: Dec 2015 Location: NYC iTrader: (3)	Anyone have a definitive solution to this? Mine is at the dealer right now and they might replace the steering rack - awaiting BMW's approval for it. Just want to see if this was able to fix the problem for those that had it done. __________________ 2022 X5 45e : AW/Tartufo 2018 M3 Competition : AW/SO 2016 340i xDrive : AW/CR (sold)
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02-12-2023, 08:11 AM	#16
E91toG05 Captain 344 Rep 615 Posts Drives: 2022 X5 45e Join Date: Oct 2010 Location: New York, NY iTrader: (0)	Pinging to see if there is an update on this one and a definite fix. I don’t drive on long drives often but when I do - this happens….
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02-19-2023, 08:30 PM	#17
E91toG05 Captain 344 Rep 615 Posts Drives: 2022 X5 45e Join Date: Oct 2010 Location: New York, NY iTrader: (0)	Checking…. Starting to bug me.
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05-21-2023, 09:19 AM	#18
Guy Fleegman Lieutenant 401 Rep 539 Posts Drives: 2022 BMW X5 45e Join Date: Feb 2022 Location: Boise, ID iTrader: (0)	My 2022 45e has developed a similar issue, just in the past few days. This is a low grinding noise coming from the steering column. Unlike other posted reports, it happens ONLY when I start the car and the wheel adjusts to driving position. It's quiet as a mouse while driving and makes no sound when the car is turned off.
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08-07-2023, 12:30 PM	#19
E91toG05 Captain 344 Rep 615 Posts Drives: 2022 X5 45e Join Date: Oct 2010 Location: New York, NY iTrader: (0)	I am finally bringing in my 2022 45e with the issue later this week (squeaking noise when steering at low speeds after car is hot/warmed up). First trip to dealer in 14 months for any issue other than the free oil change. Any tips or updated thinking on the steering issue? Based on the X5 and X7 chats, it seems to be fairly common and the fix involves a replacement rack...? Happy to learn from those that have had this fixed. Thanks!
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08-12-2023, 04:42 PM	#22
Guy Fleegman Lieutenant 401 Rep 539 Posts Drives: 2022 BMW X5 45e Join Date: Feb 2022 Location: Boise, ID iTrader: (0)	The dealer consulted with the BMW engineers who recommended regreasing the steering column. That resolved the issue, at least for now. NOTE: The groaning noise in my vehicle only occurred when the steering wheel extended into driving position, as when starting the car. It made no noise at any other time and otherwise functioned normally. But it was quite loud.
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