The BMW steering wheel feels tough and you get a warning about increased steering effort?
The main causes are uncovered here, and I will give you effective fixes. Let’s get started.
BMW Steering Warning Troubleshooting
| Meaning | The EPS (Electronic Power Steering) is malfunctioning, making steering harder |
| Common Causes | Batteries, EPS sensors, steering racks, and EPS harnesses that are loose |
| Quick Fix | New batteries or connections are often the solution |
Steering Effort Warning on BMWs: What You Need to Know
On your BMW dashboard or multifunction display, you might see a warning message that says “Increased Steering Effort Drive Moderately”.
Do you know what it means exactly?
Basically, when the steering effort is increased, it indicates that the EPS (Electronic Power Steering) is not working and that there is some kind of problem with the steering system.
The steering will become much more difficult to turn after this warning appears, and small turns will be more challenging.
You must turn the steering wheel manually because the EPS is not working.
When a “Steering Effort Alert” appears, what causes it?
I’m going to tell you what the main causes are.
My experience as a mechanic and research into the subject suggest that many things could cause this warning.
There are four possible causes that I have narrowed down.
EPS sensors are defective, the steering rack is damaged, and EPS electric harnesses are loose. Now let’s take a closer look
1. Bad Battery
In most cases, a bad battery is responsible for this warning light. Your BMW will suffer all sorts of electrical problems if the battery is not able to hold it charge or is older than three years.
A malfunctioning power source in the Electric power steering system can cause the system not to work properly. When the EPS system is engaged, a lot of power is consumed.
You will be notified by the PCM that you need to drive moderately if you are experiencing increased steering effort.
2. Loose EPS wiring
BMW steering systems are most commonly affected by loose wiring harnesses.
Multiple wiring connectors are part of the EPS system, which communicates with each other and sends information to the PCM for steering assistance control and activation.
These connectors sometimes become loose or break their connections. As a result, a warning will display “increased steering effort.”.
3. A defective EPS sensor
In addition to faulty steering sensors, this problem is also caused by faulty electric power steering sensor(s).
Computers receive steering wheel position information from sensors in your BMW steering system, which is transmitted to the steering wheel.
Having a faulty sensor makes turning your wheel more difficult and increases the effort it takes to do it.
The sensor cannot communicate properly with the PCM if it has a fault and cannot determine how much pressure you are applying to the wheel.
4. Steering rack damage
Last but not least, a damaged steering rack may be to blame for this problem. You turn your car’s wheel to turn this component that connects the wheels to the axles.
An abnormal resistance can be caused by this component if it is damaged. In this case, turning the steering wheel will be difficult without exerting more effort than expected, which may result in the display of the warning message.
BMWs rarely have steering rack problems. A large pothole or curb could, however, have damaged it if you recently hit one.
Steering Issues with BMWs: Effective Solutions
1. Bad battery solution:
The problem is usually resolved by replacing the battery. It may help recharge the battery if the car has been idle for a while and the battery is relatively new.
The most common cause of this problem is a bad battery.
2. Fix for loose EPS wiring harness:
Be sure to inspect the connectors for secure attachment. Wire connectors or electrical tape can be used to reattach a loose connection.
The warning can often be resolved with this simple fix.
3. Faulty EPS sensor solution:
BMW dealers or qualified mechanics will have to replace malfunctioning steering wheel sensors.
Steering effort can be significantly affected by sensor issues.
4. Steering rack repair method:
Damaged steering racks, like ones hit by potholes or curbs, will need to be replaced. Any BMW dealer or mechanic qualified to handle this task should be able to do it.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What does the warning “Drive Moderately” mean? What does this mean?
This warning indicates that the vehicle’s steering system is experiencing issues, leading to increased resistance when turning the steering wheel. It is often associated with electric power steering systems, which may be malfunctioning or detecting an error.
Is it safe to drive with increased steering effort?
Driving with increased steering effort can be dangerous, as it may affect your ability to control the vehicle effectively. If you experience this issue, it is advisable to have it checked immediately to prevent potential accidents.
Can I fix this issue myself?
While some owners may attempt basic diagnostics using tools, most issues related to increased steering effort require professional intervention. Replacing components like the steering rack or control unit typically requires specialized knowledge and tools, as well as programming for compatibility with your vehicle.
How common is this issue among BMW owners?
Many BMW owners report experiencing similar warnings; however, the frequency and severity can vary by model and year. It is essential to monitor your vehicle’s performance and address any warnings promptly to avoid further complications.
