How can i fix stiff steering on my bmw 316i - 1997 BMW 318

Not familiar with the 316i but have had 97 M3 which exhibited similar trait. If the car is manual transmission try to gently pull the steering wheel to each direction while trying the key. If the vehicle is an automatic make sure the shift lever is all the way into the park position. In both cases it could be the safety interlock is causing the problem.
Depending on the mileage of the car - and for a 98 at an average yearly rate of 12K per year - I'm guessing the miles are up there, the ignition switch iteself could need replacing. If you have a good shop manual (Bentley) and posses mechanical abilities it is not too difficult.

I, feel sorry for you, after reading your problem, but don't worry you visit the Reliable-Store they will help you for sure. BMW 316 316i 1988 1991 Repair Service Manual PDF

Hi

Very common fault, is the key just spinning around? if so the ignition barrel is hot so you will need a new one, if you dont have time right now to fix it then turn tha car off turn the steering all the way right then put the key in the ignition while also turning full steering lock right, this often gives the barrel switch some grip and you can start the car.

Do you need more specific information on how to repair this yourself?

If so do get back to me and I will tell you how.

Regards

Dan

i've had a similar issue with a 99 M3. really stiff steering. i thought i was getting old and weak.

I was chasing another problem when i discovered a solution for my stiff steering issue.

Most of these vehicles have a valve that helps control steering pump fluid flow at various speeds.

i.e at higher speed you want stiffer steering. at low speeds easier steering. however, how does the pump known your going faster?

Note: all bmw steering hoses leak...

As your car ages, so do electrical contacts, especially in harser climates.

I used eletrical contact cleaner and di-electric grease to solve an intermittemt ASC problem.

This also cleared up the steering issue.

get some electrical contact cleaner and some di-electric grease. pop your hood and clean as many electrical connections as you can and apply a little di-electric grease after the contact cleaner drys.
even do the dme.

Note: I have replaced the power steering rack twice before i discovered this fix. You may also fix some other issues in the meantime.

electrical contacts may be the biggest problem source for most newer vehocles since they tie everything together.

old car...electrical contacts may be the most common source for problems...even stiff steering.

solution...clean as many electrical connections as possible including the main harness to the dme.

use an electrical contact cleaner on all of them. let each contact dry and then apply a small amount of di-electric grease to those cleaned contacts.

I solved an intermittent ASC problems and stiff steering at low speeds with this fix. could very well fix bad signals from cam shaft sensors, as well as speed sensors etc.

with engine idling at normal temp open top of filler and top up to between marks, occaisonally turning steering from lock to lock.

possibly top bearing in steering Columm,get it looked at as steering could bind(jam)not for inexperienced people to try to fix dangerous

The power steering reservoir is between the engine and air filter intake. It looks as the image below.

I WOULD LIKE YOU TO CHANGE YOUR PCV VALE FITTED TO YOUR INLET MANIFOLD