Overheated

Hi everyone. While learning about my new 1999 E55, kindly looking for any help with a Speed Parameter Steering issue.

So, it's today boiled down to this...

Symptoms:
- Constant low screech as in a tiny power steering growl.
- The SPS Valve is leaking.
- Steering is constantly loose.

Saw that an o-ring is replaceable. Can this cause not only the leak but the loose steering?

I understand that the default status of the steering is firm. So if the steering is constantly loose, can this possibly mean that a) the valve is stuck either open or closed, or b) the electrical feed from the ESP is constant in that it's sending a high speed signal to the servo? No codes are present.

Could all of this have been caused by using the wrong fluid?

I understand the valve comes only with the rack. Is there a quality mfg. anyone can recommend?

Any help deciphering this condition is greatly appreciated.

raymond g-

i recall a w210 TSB for noisy steering but the cause was more superficial in nature

Overheated

SO...the SPS Valve on the rack which was leaking was pulled, the o-ring replaced, but the valve is apparently stuck as it's getting correct feed from the ESP. Thus the floating and constant light steering.

Couldn't find the valve separately. Ordered a rebuilt rack with valve from rmeuropean. 2 year warranty. Had a talk with the rebuilder, Atlantic Automotive in Alabama. They are the only one I could find. According to them the valves are very rare and only come with the complete rebuilt rack. When they have them in stock they sell direct, but didn't so directed me to SSF in Carson, CA, and Autozone whom they also distribute to. I ordered from rmeuropean because I buy parts from them regularly, they've never failed me and their stuff is always top shelf.

The rack should arrive today and I'll report back on the results, if there's anyone out there...

raymond g-

thanks for keeping us updated, as your repair is a bit unique and not often reported, so the R&R is of value to the DIY folks. r-