Gethen

Something definitely abnormal happens when I turn the steering wheel. The system emits intermittent buzzing, gritting sound for a few moments. It happens only on right turns, when the wheel is almost in the extreme position. Today, the noise continued for a couple of minutes of straight driving!

It also seems to correlate with colder weather. I remember hearing the same noises last winter, but not over the warm season.

Does anyone have an idea what could be the cause?

TMAllison

Have you checked the PS fluid level?

AMGTTV8

My car does the same thing and it drives me nuts...makes me feel like i'm driving a semi - let us know what comes of it!

Gethen

Assuming the reservoir to the right-front of the engine, marked A 000 461 01 83, contains power steering fluid , TMAllison is right ! The probe on the lid shows it's almost empty. I'd appreciate if someone points me to a diagram to confirm that's the right reservoir to check

What is the right type of PS fluid for 2003 E320? I heard MB shares it with some other system in the car.

Another question is: where did it go? I see no evidence of leaking on the floor of my garage, and the car had been through a major maintenance at the dealer this spring.

konigstiger

Reservoir, see M112 in diagram
Pentosin CHF 11S, MB part #BQ1320001 ($21 list/ 17.50 net)

Depending on how long you have been driving without sufficient fluid they may need to replace the power steering pump. If driven for a short distance (i.e.: up to 30 miles) the residual fluid in the pump is sufficient to provide an adequate lubricating film. Leakage from the internal steering lines and sealing rings at the gear box/steering rack are common.

In addition, while in for repair have the dealer check VMI to see if your vehicle is included in Service Campaign 2006040004 JUL06 to clean sleeves and install new bolts/washers to front axle VIN range listed in bulletin for the 211.065 (e320): A014562 – A600000, X097696 – X116123.

Gethen

Thank you, konigstiger! Do you have an image showing M112 placement under the hood? It looks like the right part, but I am not certain.

I don't plan on taking the car to service right away, rather, I'll purchase the fluid and will listen on any bad sounds. I haven't driven much without the fluid, and there is a low level of it still in the reservoir.

If it comes to replacing the pump, what price tag am I looking at?

Thanks!

konigstiger

Part #0044661401 MBUSA $590 list/472 net, also check online (i.e.: http://www.parts.com about $404.80).

Gethen

Thanks for the info! A $1000 minimum at the dealership then

Yuzuk

hello! I had the same problems on my 03 E320.Unfortunately i had to change power steering pump.I got it from e-bay it cost me 250 $.I install it myself .
Power steering fluid is MB dealer called
S6161 Febi hydraulic fluid.I got 1 litre bottle and dealer charge arm and leg for it but used only 170 ml.
Be careful not overflow use only correct amount between lines on the stick.
Do not make habit to turn steering wheel all the way to the right or to the left especially on the parking.This can prematurely warn out your power steering system.
Good luck to you all

Gethen

Presuming you are not a mechanic yourself, did you use some kind of guidance to install the pump?

TMAllison

After filling to the proper level, you'll likely need to turn the wheels lock to lock and hold for a moment as that is what bleeds air from the system.

Gethen

Well, I added the fluid (Pentosin) to the proper level, and no longer hear any buzzing. Will check tomorrow if the level drops to indicate a leak.

Yuzuk

Gethen!
I think that you resolve your problem.If it stop that grinding noise that mean your power steering fluid was too low.
I am not the mechanic myself.I just little handy with tools and when i see that i can do it I usually do it .But when the problem is too complicated i let it to professionals.
By the way i am from Toronto/Mississauga/ but time to time travel to Cleavland to see my friends so we can meet