Screeching Noise When Turning Right E46 330

[warren]

I get a loud screeching (sounds similar to a belt slipping) when I turn my steering right, it appears to be coming from the rack or that area. My fluid reserve is full and I'm confused why it only happens when I turn right?
Would the control arm bush failure cause this?

330ci 2001 61K miles

Many thanks for any help,
warren

[jisang1]

see my question about a wheel bearing failure.....if your left bearing has failed, then your car will make a humming noise when you turn right....(and vice versa)... If the noise GOES away when you turn LEFT, that means your right bearing is OK, but your left one is causing the trouble...

test it by driving in a straight line and then turning left then right....

The parts for such a repair (if it IS indeed the wheel bearing) will run approx $125. Labor may be DIY or a mechanic - your choice.

[jisang1]

BTW, the noise gets progressively lounder if the problem is left unchecked....if it is REALLY loud, its possible that your bearing is in really bad shape...

Although it SOUNDS like a bearing problem, It is also possible that the problem is NOT your bearing, so I would get it checked out if I were you....

[Howie]

I know it sounds stupid, but its not the tyre rubbing on some loose plastic trim from inside the wheel arch is it?

[warren]

Problem solved!

It's the track control arm (Wishbone Joint). I have seen this mentioned a few times as a weakness on the E46 2001 and BMW have modified the replacement part. The bad news is the price £612.61 fitted!

[Howie]

Ouch... That is not cheap.

[warren]

price is for both sides, but still not great for an item that is suspect from new. My car has done 61K miles.