WhisperingWillow Posted July 1, 2023 Share Posted July 1, 2023 I have an interesting problem: my 2002 R53 has started to pull to the left when I speed up and to the right when I slow down. There is a delay of about 0.5 to 1 second between applying power and pulling. At low speeds, the pull isn't as clear, but it's very clear above 60 km/h. It feels like torque steer, and the car has just started doing it. I put the car on jack stands and there is no play in the steering, I can't see any worn bushings, and nothing is loose. I did notice a small leak in the power steering. It seems to be coming from the resovoir, but the fluid was wet on the sub frame. A year ago, the car had a steering pump put in. I think it was used, since the previous owner did the work. All of the frame and engine mounts were changed at the same time. It doesn't do it every time, which is strange, and a few times I've felt the pull even though the car wasn't moving. The pump isn't making any noise. Do you have any ideas about what to check next? Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
DreamCatcher88 Posted July 1, 2023 Share Posted July 1, 2023 On one side, I would presume the primary control arm bushing. The road wheel will advance and retreat. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
NAVITEL Posted July 1, 2023 Share Posted July 1, 2023 Something must be worn if one is to go over the bushes. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Gianni682 Posted July 1, 2023 Share Posted July 1, 2023 I'll recheck the bushings, but I'm wondering if it could be the steering rack. I would have assumed shrubs would be present at any speed; it is strange that they are only visible above 50-60 km/h. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
nimbuye5 Posted July 1, 2023 Share Posted July 1, 2023 Just now, Gianni682 said: I'll recheck the bushings, but I'm wondering if it could be the steering rack. I would have assumed shrubs would be present at any speed; it is strange that they are only visible above 50-60 km/h. If you suspect a problem with your steering rack, try making gentle U-turns and letting the wheel "centre" itself when the turn is completed. Turn around numerous times in each direction. A faulty steering rack may be identified by a steering wheel that no longer returns to its original position when centred. (I used this test on another vehicle when I suspected (but the dealer service personnel insisted) a faulty steering rack; once the dealer recognised my diagnosis, they replaced the rack under warranty). Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
diablos_carcv5 Posted July 1, 2023 Share Posted July 1, 2023 I had a car (not a Mini) that did this, and it was caused by the handbrake binding on one side and irregular tyre pressure. Worth a glance? Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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