E83 steering is heavy.

[Markx3]

Any E83 owners out there feel that the steering on their car is heavy. Is this the way it is, or is it just me? Thanks.

[Mystikal]

Just the way it is, most likely. I get that comment from several E83 owners wondering if something is broken.

[Markx3]

Thanks for that, although on the highway making small corrections seems to be harder than I remember, causing one to over correct. Any issues with the steering shaft ujoints that you are aware of? Thanks.

[Markx3]

Pulled the lower ujoint at the bottom of the steering shaft. It was almost completely locked up, 10 years of corrosion. Something to think about if your steering is heavier than you remember.

[rdc]

Was it the double joint? Hard to replace? Got the same issue.

[Markx3]

Yes the double joint. Not too hard. BMW uses a plastic alignment tab on the pinion leaving no room to insert a screwdriver to spread the clamped piece on the spline making it a real chore to remove.

[Markx3]

Just an update. Changed the very tight lower steering shaft lower ujoint wth no difference. As the rack was making an odd dragging sound when disconnected from the tie rod ends and steering shaft, I decided to change that. With the old rack out the difference in the force needed to turn the pinion compared to the replacement rack was readily apparent. Once installed and everything lined up, took it for a road test, problem solved. Typical X3 weight but smooth and fluid, corrections easily made making the car a joy to drive again and not the chore it had become.

[sundo3]

I can steer mine with a stiffened index and middle finger because I am a lazy steering wheeler. If it's a pain into your fingers or not even do-able, then I would say that something is odd and needs attention.
GL

[sundo3]

I'll have to fly you into Vancouver when this happens to me. What a relief if you can fix it yourself. Maybe you can look over my shoulder and instruct me how to do it, like a good teacher would