Jekudk

Hi
So now our 2007 GL 450 has got a power steering issue. The first inches left and right are like normal and the it really blocks and is hard to turn and need two hands the next 1/2 turn the it can be done with one hand again for a couple of inches and the locks and is hard the rest of the way.
Fluid level is ok. It doesn't matter if it the car is cold or hot. No noise or so when turning.
Any idea or suggestions? It is really a shame because I'm about to sell it and don't want to do it with issues and also Idont want to spend a fortune now that it is on its way out
I hope it is just an sensor I can change myself.

Reg
Jesper

taleb659

Give me the vin number for your car and I will check if it has speed sensitive steering, (Code 213). If it does then its probably a bad solenoid located on the steering rack.

Jekudk

Appreciate the help.
Vin is PM'ed

Is that something DIY?

taleb659

Your vehicle does have speed sensitive steering. Replacing the solenoid is a piece of cake but you want to make sure its bad first.

Your first step is to get your vehicle scanned with a star scanner either a dealer or independent. If the solenoid is bad then it will throw a code in the ESP menu.

Here is what the solenoid looks like: http://www.ebay.com/itm/Mercedes-W164-R171-W211-W219-GENUINE-Speed-Related-Steering-Solenoid-2114600984-/360689896224?pt=Motors_Car_Truck_Parts_Accessories&fits=Model%3AGL450&hash=item53facb0b20&vxp=mtr
It sits on the steering rack, like i said replacement is easy but make sure that is your problem first.

Jekudk

So just went and it showed code P0422 and P2004 but don't think that is related to the valve.
Also have to say this wasn't a STAR tool but one of these general ones. Any idea?
Also a samll update i notised when driving home. the first half turn left or right works. Then it is hard for half a turn. then loose for the next half turn agian. Also it dosnt seem to have any influence on the speed. even at 50mph it still feels loose. And no i didnt do a full turn on the wheel at 50mph

Jekudk

I think i will risk and order the valve .... Does anybody have an instruction on how to replace?

taleb659

The codes that you pulled up are not related to the ESP function of the vehicle. In order to get the right code you need to put the vehicle on a Star scanner or equivalent. A scanner that is able to access the ESP menu.

Replacement is very easy, it is only held on by two bolts. You will need a quart of Mercedes Benz power steering fluid, because it will throw out a good amount. Here is a PDF about this valve, it will give you a better idea how easy this procedure is.

taleb659

Here is a picture of one I replaced recently :

Jekudk

So now it is official. I HATE MY GL450 :-( I really apriciate the great feedback but it didnt help. Dang nabbit! :-) 30 days left and then I have to sell. Anybody interested in a GL450 with power steering issue? Also noted that the color of the fluid was very dark brown. Any influence?

taleb659

A couple of questions: Did you replace the solenoid with a new one? If so, did you make sure the electrical connection snapped on correctly?

Jekudk

Yes i replaced it with a new.
As far as I an see it is as far in as possible. The two tap on the side past the carving on the connector where the clip goes. Make sense?
Think it is more electrical. Or maybe I'm just stupid. When I disconnect it is hard all they way.

taleb659

Next question, did you make sure there is enough power steering fluid in the reservoir? Also, did you bleed the power steering system to make sure there is no air. If there is air then your steering would also be heavy.

Jekudk

Yes to power steering fluid. No to bleed. How?
I pulled out the old valve and quickly popped in the new one. Checked level and turned it on.
Feels exactly like before :-(

taleb659

There's a couple of ways on bleeding the system. Just check out a couple of videos on YouTube to see the best method that is easy for you. I highly suggest you bleed the system because if there is air trapped you will cause some serious damage.

Jekudk

Ok. Now I know what you mean. Yes did bleed the system.

Jekudk

Should I replace all the fluid maybe?

Smalone01

Sounds like your power steering pump is going bad.. how many miles do you have?

Jekudk

102.000. Sounds like this is going to be an expensive sell

It might be time to take it to the dealer.

Smalone01

I would find a good independent shop and have them check it . I believe that pump can be bought reman for well over half the price of new with a better warranty.

Smalone01

Should be under a $800 repair if that's the issue

MarekW

I have a question
I am replacing steering rack on my 07 Gl which has Speed Sensing Steering, and some companies sell re-manufactured racks without EVO component (Electronic Variable Orifice).
Is this EVO same as Speed Related Steering Solenoid 211 460 09 84,that I could remove from my old rack and install on the new rack, or the two items are totally different?

Your help greatly appreciated

gl320py

Could you help me to know if my vehicle have that option?, need to buy a new rack and pinion and is very confusing, thanks.

MarekW

The dealer will tell you based on your vin number, best place I found was car steering wholsale (look on google) $645, it is more than 2 years and working great.

Good luck