BMW I Have recently purchased a BMW 318i 1993 model estate, it has very light steering but no signs of ware and tare on the steering or any other components related to the steering. The MOT is only 2 months old. Any ideas before I have to take it in to a garage. I am a pensioner & cost is obviously a factor. Kind regards S. Georgiou.

Try resetting your inertial safety switch (especially if the car was bumped or in an accident recently).

Replace power steering rack and power steering pump. But first check fluid level. No fluid in reservoir can mimick same problem. Take off air box to adequately see level.

There are 2 engines used on the 318i. One has a chain the other a belt. The M40B18(1990-1993) uses a cam belt and the M43B18(1993-1998) a chain.

could be the brake sensor switch down below by steering column/brake pedal.

try one of the big fuses near the battery

check the internet for a bmw e36 ETM ( electronic troubleshooting manual) everything you need is there.

the fuses u are looking for are as follows:
From the top left first row its# 4
then the bottom row its # 19
I also wanted to point out. from 1989 to 1996 the brake switch was the common failure for bmw's
the series it included were 318i, 525-540i, and all 7 series. if the fuses dont fix it.. its the switch
located under a panel u need remove on the drivers side on the steering collum

I have a 1993 bmw 318i and the same problem..no power to the windows or sunroof and no lights on any of the window or sunroof switches.The ANSWER is take the kick panel of the driver side locate the blue relay next to the orange or brown relay.Take the blue relay out and either replace it or take the blue cap off the relay and check the solder to all pins.There is one or more pins where the solder has crack..just buy a soldering gun and some solder .015 diameter and re solder all the cracked solder on the pins and it is back to normal.

Go to the dealer parts dept and ask for them to print a copy of the exploded parts diagram.

the light should be on when air con is working. only works when the blower is on ,ie heater blower switch on=air con light lit up = aircon working.