I was wondering if anyone has run into this problem on their E320. I have a 2001 4Matic with 83K miles that i recently purchased. The steering was fine at that time (very responsive). Just this weekend I realized that the steering has become heavier almost to the point that I have to use both my hands to turn when the car is stationary. I''ve tried flushing the fluid with Mercedes power steering fluid but its hasnt made any different. The fluid level also seems normal and there doesnt seem to be any fluid leakage (no spots left behind under the car). At this point I dont know what to do other than taking it to a Mercedes authorized service center but i was wondering if anyone here has seen this before. Any suggestions???

 

Very important that the rack never get dry whn flushing.....assume you've confirmed the belt and tensioner are OK and that the PS pulley is turning at low RPM?

 

sorry I really dont know how to check the belt and tensioner to see if they're ok or to check the rpm of the PS pulley

 

With engine off, you should not be able to push down on the belt and make it deflect more than ~1/2". Should be pretty taunt.

With engine on, pop hood when first started cold and see if the PS pump pulley is turning.

 

I have the same problem with my 2002 e430 sport. Fluid is fine and the dealer checked everything and couldn't find a problem. Sucks I know.

 

Yes I was able to deflect the belt more than 1".
Does this mean it needs to be replaced?
Also how do I know which of the 7 pulleys is the PS pump pulley? I've attached a picture. Could you please mark the one?

 

It would be the pulley connected to the pump you put the PS fluid back inside of when you flushed it......

 

sorry... I didnt change the PS fluid. The mechanic did. But I checked and if its one of the 7 pulleys that the belt drives then they are all running when i cold start the car. But the belt definitely has over 1" of play.

Is there anything else you think i could check?