Steering noise
Out Of Control!!
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From: Silicon Valley
W212 MY'14 M276-3.5NA @75kMi
I see....
How does that look on your electric rack??
On my end, I confirm having :
no looseness (@75kMi)
+/-1° as input torque sensor
absolutely no-clunking
It not the new rack, not new tie rods, not old column couplers... It will be interesting to figure this one out.
How does that look on your electric rack??
On my end, I confirm having :
no looseness (@75kMi)
+/-1° as input torque sensor
absolutely no-clunking
It not the new rack, not new tie rods, not old column couplers... It will be interesting to figure this one out.
Last edited by CaliBenzDriver; Jul 27, 2025 at 06:55 PM.
Out Of Control!!
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From: Silicon Valley
W212 MY'14 M276-3.5NA @75kMi
MORE ABOUT STEERING
-- SPINDLE... Elsewhere I read a reminder to check for wheel suspension freeplay. Check both horizontal 9 O'clock and veryical 6 O'clock freeplay.
Loose spindle control arms lead to loose steering. Then nothing to do with loose steering input.
-- BUSHINGS: Lastly the rack mount uses some type of bushing for vibration control - This usually come as part of the rack itself, yours is new already.
-- SMART STEERING: Once the steering mechanicals are in order you can enable your smart electric steering by dealing with SCM module networking.
It makes the car hold its precise center track stable on freeway instead of being light unstable.
Loose spindle control arms lead to loose steering. Then nothing to do with loose steering input.
-- BUSHINGS: Lastly the rack mount uses some type of bushing for vibration control - This usually come as part of the rack itself, yours is new already.
-- SMART STEERING: Once the steering mechanicals are in order you can enable your smart electric steering by dealing with SCM module networking.
It makes the car hold its precise center track stable on freeway instead of being light unstable.
Last edited by CaliBenzDriver; Jul 28, 2025 at 01:17 PM.
Out Of Control!!
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From: Silicon Valley
W212 MY'14 M276-3.5NA @75kMi
STEERING COLUMN COUPLER
prime suspect to check
you have checked this U-joint and found no issue in there
Looseness and knocking must be suspension related: control arm, ball-joints, (roller bearings).
Test as mentioned prior post.
Last edited by CaliBenzDriver; Jul 28, 2025 at 02:35 PM.
Out Of Control!!
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From: Silicon Valley
W212 MY'14 M276-3.5NA @75kMi
The odd part is both racks have the matching loose clunkiness.
The old rack sure why not defective... BUT the new one from Bosch has got to be super well factory tested for safety reasons.
The looseness could be some weird input torque sensor BUT combined with the clunky freeplay that's seriously odd.
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Junior Member
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From: Santa Clara CA
2014 E63 S Sedan
No looseness or clunking at all on my bone stock never wrecked 2014 E63S sedan w/ 48k miles when the car is off or on. Super tight and responsive when driving. Regularly driven hard and fast in the super twisty Santa Cruz mountains in CA. Only suspension work ever done was front sway bar end links (212-320-25(6)-89-64), front lower control arms (218-330-22-00), and 4-wheel dealership alignment, all at 43k. Could one of those be the culprit here? Only other thought is it never freezes where I live, so no rubber shrinkage in the winter. Hope that helps.
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From: Santa Clara CA
2014 E63 S Sedan
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04 E55 AMG (totaled), 07 S550 4Matic, 14 E63S
Interesting. I don't know if I can get RockAuto to refund. I guess I can make an attempt. I'd rather just get my money back and put it toward a reman rack. And of course if that's no better then I am out of options.
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2014 E63S; AMS 100 octane ECU dyno tune; EDOK TCU tune; BB intakes; sprintbooster
It's unclear to me if the clunking and looseness @kevm14 is experiencing are related or unrelated
I have clunking but don't have any perceived looseness on the road; drives like the day I bought it from a steering perspective and I'm on all the same original suspension bits, no accidents etc, never replaced any control arms
I have clunking but don't have any perceived looseness on the road; drives like the day I bought it from a steering perspective and I'm on all the same original suspension bits, no accidents etc, never replaced any control arms
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04 E55 AMG (totaled), 07 S550 4Matic, 14 E63S
Yes - let's narrow down some things. But before we do I'm just going to list some variables.
- Clunk from the rack when wiggling the steering wheel with the engine off (such as my video)
- Play on center while driving
- Acceptable play on center while driving
- Unacceptable play on center while driving
- Play that hasn't changed since the vehicle was new (regardless of amount or lack thereof)
It is true that I do not know for sure but the rack itself is a fairly simple mechanical system that happens to have an electric motor for power assist (as far as I can tell).
My evidence is the following:
- Play while driving in a high performance car that originally cost $104k (at least my example), though the original rack and new Bosch rack both exhibit similar play
- The OP said that a technician found a clunk from the rack and after the warranty covered replacement, the steering was much tighter
- When I wiggle the steering wheel I can demonstrate the play with the engine off, and underneath the car, can localize the sound to the rack and even feel it in the input shaft while someone else is wiggling the wheel.
And from recent replies, it is sounding like some cars have play and some don't, and also some people maybe don't have an issue with any play the rack may have. I'm not really asking if the steering is acceptable to anyone. I am asking if theirs has the ~3 degrees of slop that my brand new one does, similar to the original one.
- Clunk from the rack when wiggling the steering wheel with the engine off (such as my video)
- Play on center while driving
- Acceptable play on center while driving
- Unacceptable play on center while driving
- Play that hasn't changed since the vehicle was new (regardless of amount or lack thereof)
It is true that I do not know for sure but the rack itself is a fairly simple mechanical system that happens to have an electric motor for power assist (as far as I can tell).
My evidence is the following:
- Play while driving in a high performance car that originally cost $104k (at least my example), though the original rack and new Bosch rack both exhibit similar play
- The OP said that a technician found a clunk from the rack and after the warranty covered replacement, the steering was much tighter
- When I wiggle the steering wheel I can demonstrate the play with the engine off, and underneath the car, can localize the sound to the rack and even feel it in the input shaft while someone else is wiggling the wheel.
And from recent replies, it is sounding like some cars have play and some don't, and also some people maybe don't have an issue with any play the rack may have. I'm not really asking if the steering is acceptable to anyone. I am asking if theirs has the ~3 degrees of slop that my brand new one does, similar to the original one.
Last edited by kevm14; Aug 5, 2025 at 05:04 PM.
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Mercedes-AMG CLS 63 S 4MATIC
Hey guys,
I have a Mercedes-AMG CLS 63 S 4MATIC 2017/12 year with the same exact issue. Steering noise and clunking. I replaced many parts, including the strut mount and the part connected to that but the issue is still there. I thought this would solve the clicking/clunking but it did not, where I assume the noise comes from the steering gear. I'll post some videos below
I have a Mercedes-AMG CLS 63 S 4MATIC 2017/12 year with the same exact issue. Steering noise and clunking. I replaced many parts, including the strut mount and the part connected to that but the issue is still there. I thought this would solve the clicking/clunking but it did not, where I assume the noise comes from the steering gear. I'll post some videos below
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04 E55 AMG (totaled), 07 S550 4Matic, 14 E63S
The first video is strut mounts and unrelated.
The second video looks exactly like my issue but maybe even worse. How precise is the steering when driving on a flat road? Does it feel like there is any slop in the center or does it respond instantly to adjustments?
The second video looks exactly like my issue but maybe even worse. How precise is the steering when driving on a flat road? Does it feel like there is any slop in the center or does it respond instantly to adjustments?
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For some reason, my post got deleted, and I assume it's since it's a new account, but I found out I have this one available which I registered last year, so I'll keep using it in the future.
I think my strut mounts are fine since I replaced them. I need to replace the spring since it's not sitting right, anyway I think I found out the issue. Regarding play, I can't notice anything strange. When I switch between C, S, S+ I think I have more of a placebo where I think that the steering wheel is more sportier/harder, which I think it actually is, it was just that the other day I had something different on my mind, so I couldn't notice it, but yeah, everything works fine. When I steer, the inputs are direct, there is no delay or anything whatosever. I also own a Mercedes-Benz C300 S205 from 2016 with the AMG Sports package, and three months ago I actually replaced my steering rack, because there was some play, meaning when you center it, and wiggle left or right, you'll notice as if there's some small weight in the center and some play. This was actually a steering rack issue, it probably failed with some parts not sure, but after I replaced, it's now good. I think the issue might be in your steering rack if you notice that there is some play while driving. Regarding the video (forgot one which it was) where I turned the steering left and right and that clunking noise, I think all CLS models have that, since my brother drives a CLS 250d 2016, and I asked him to record a video, and it's the same.
I think my strut mounts are fine since I replaced them. I need to replace the spring since it's not sitting right, anyway I think I found out the issue. Regarding play, I can't notice anything strange. When I switch between C, S, S+ I think I have more of a placebo where I think that the steering wheel is more sportier/harder, which I think it actually is, it was just that the other day I had something different on my mind, so I couldn't notice it, but yeah, everything works fine. When I steer, the inputs are direct, there is no delay or anything whatosever. I also own a Mercedes-Benz C300 S205 from 2016 with the AMG Sports package, and three months ago I actually replaced my steering rack, because there was some play, meaning when you center it, and wiggle left or right, you'll notice as if there's some small weight in the center and some play. This was actually a steering rack issue, it probably failed with some parts not sure, but after I replaced, it's now good. I think the issue might be in your steering rack if you notice that there is some play while driving. Regarding the video (forgot one which it was) where I turned the steering left and right and that clunking noise, I think all CLS models have that, since my brother drives a CLS 250d 2016, and I asked him to record a video, and it's the same.
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04 E55 AMG (totaled), 07 S550 4Matic, 14 E63S
So what I am hearing is that all (or many) cars clunk but it's unrelated to play in the center? And some people also have play issues? I am just annoyed that my brand new Bosch rack has play. I wouldn't care at all about the clunking if it didn't have slop on center while driving down the highway. It's really annoying.
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On both the W205 and W218 platforms, the universal joints between the steering column and the rack can develop wear over time. Even if you install a brand-new steering rack, if those joints or the intermediate shaft have slack, you’ll still feel a bit of free play at the wheel before the rack actually reacts.
By any chance, did you buy that Bosch steering rack from Germany? I noticed on third-party sites like Autodoc that there was only one Bosch rack available (and it doesn’t require flashing), so I suspect you might have grabbed the last one.
Also, could you maybe record a video of you driving and explaining the issue? On my C300, the play in the steering was really bad. After a while it got worse when the wheel was centered, I could move it a few centimeters left or right freely, and then I’d feel resistance once I went past that play. Steering still worked, but that slack in the middle was really annoying.
I ended up buying a brand-new OEM steering rack for about 1500€, and now that part feels fine. But my car still isn’t 100% fixed: it tends to drift slightly to the left. I suspect the problem might be in the steering column or the intermediate shaft between the column and the rack.
I’ve already done about 12 wheel alignments, replaced basically all suspension parts (stabilizers, arms, etc.), checked the wheels and tires, and everything looks fine. The only clue I’ve found is in the head unit’s AMG display: when I turn the steering wheel, the angle shown is always 1° smaller when turning right compared to left.
By any chance, did you buy that Bosch steering rack from Germany? I noticed on third-party sites like Autodoc that there was only one Bosch rack available (and it doesn’t require flashing), so I suspect you might have grabbed the last one.
Also, could you maybe record a video of you driving and explaining the issue? On my C300, the play in the steering was really bad. After a while it got worse when the wheel was centered, I could move it a few centimeters left or right freely, and then I’d feel resistance once I went past that play. Steering still worked, but that slack in the middle was really annoying.
I ended up buying a brand-new OEM steering rack for about 1500€, and now that part feels fine. But my car still isn’t 100% fixed: it tends to drift slightly to the left. I suspect the problem might be in the steering column or the intermediate shaft between the column and the rack.
I’ve already done about 12 wheel alignments, replaced basically all suspension parts (stabilizers, arms, etc.), checked the wheels and tires, and everything looks fine. The only clue I’ve found is in the head unit’s AMG display: when I turn the steering wheel, the angle shown is always 1° smaller when turning right compared to left.
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04 E55 AMG (totaled), 07 S550 4Matic, 14 E63S
I bought mine from Rockauto but it was probably drop shipped direct from a distributor. It arrived in Bosch box and looked 100% legit. It DID require flashing and also the lock to lock relearn procedure. I don't believe my steering shaft has any play. During free play experimentation, the input shaft of the rack is actually turning which means the motion gets all the way through the steering shaft. I can check again of course.
When I originally looked for the rack, it was out of stock. But I clicked the button for them to e-mail me when back in stock. Evidently they found one and e-mailed me, and I bought that one. I just e-mailed customer service to briefly express my dissatisfaction. I do not want another Bosch rack nor do I want to wait for them to "find" one. I want a refund and will apply that to a dealer rack. I am not sure they will go for this though.
When I originally looked for the rack, it was out of stock. But I clicked the button for them to e-mail me when back in stock. Evidently they found one and e-mailed me, and I bought that one. I just e-mailed customer service to briefly express my dissatisfaction. I do not want another Bosch rack nor do I want to wait for them to "find" one. I want a refund and will apply that to a dealer rack. I am not sure they will go for this though.
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The OEM part number you need is A2184607800. This is the latest, original stock part, not refurbished. If a part number ends in 64, that indicates a refurbished/repaired unit. Those can be fine if sourced directly from Mercedes, but personally, I’d avoid them.
Also check part number 150 (A2044620378) and part number 50 (A2124610043). Inspect both to make sure they’re in good condition and that the bolts are properly tightened (they should be, but it’s worth confirming).
Also, I've seen this Bosch Steering Rack, I thought you bought this maybe:
Autodoc Steering Rack Link OEM Reference A2184607800
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04 E55 AMG (totaled), 07 S550 4Matic, 14 E63S
Yes I bought the Bosch KS00001959.
This is the part on my local dealer's parts website (29% discount from list): https://www.mercedesbenzpartsshop.co...UtNWwtdjgtZ2Fz
It is a -64 part. -80 means reman. -64 I think just means like alternate supply, based on a strut I bought recently. They may have a part with no suffix available at the counter, to your point. I could call. But I will be paying straight list price at that point.
Here is the part on their retail website which seems to be the same only more expensive. https://www.mercedesbenzofwarwick.co...Jlc3VsdHM%253D
This is the part on my local dealer's parts website (29% discount from list): https://www.mercedesbenzpartsshop.co...UtNWwtdjgtZ2Fz
It is a -64 part. -80 means reman. -64 I think just means like alternate supply, based on a strut I bought recently. They may have a part with no suffix available at the counter, to your point. I could call. But I will be paying straight list price at that point.
Here is the part on their retail website which seems to be the same only more expensive. https://www.mercedesbenzofwarwick.co...Jlc3VsdHM%253D
Last edited by kevm14; Sep 1, 2025 at 09:40 AM.
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Numbers ending in 64 or 80 generally indicate refurbished or remanufactured parts, usually done by third-party suppliers. At this stage, they’re not even produced by the original licensed manufacturer, since Mercedes frequently changes suppliers. And wow, prices in the US are noticeably higher than here in Europe. If I were in your position, I’d return the part if possible. If you installed it yourself, a return might be tricky. But if a shop installed it and sourced the part, then you probably can return it. Personally, I’d go for either an OEM original part directly from Mercedes (without the 64/80 suffix), and if it’s not in stock, I’d just grab one from eBay instead.: Steering Rack LHD MERCEDES CLS (C218)
It's also refurbished, but I think the guy knows what he's doing.
It's also refurbished, but I think the guy knows what he's doing.
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04 E55 AMG (totaled), 07 S550 4Matic, 14 E63S
Good news: Rockauto has agreed to let me return the Bosch rack for a refund. It seems that they are not able to easily source a replacement so they agreed to my refund request.
Now, what do I buy instead? I have a short window to pull this return off though hopefully if I requested an extension they would agree.
Now, what do I buy instead? I have a short window to pull this return off though hopefully if I requested an extension they would agree.
