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lindasturm1

BMW X4 ABS and Steering Issues: Multiple Red Flags

Hey all! Having some worrying issues with my 2014 BMW X4 (gas, 184k km). ABS warning keeps popping up, steering wheel's got a nasty shake to it, and the power steering feels really heavy. Got a tire pressure warning too. Last mechanic visit wasn't great, so I'm hesitant to go back. Has anyone dealt with similar symptoms? Were these issues connected? What was the actual problem and how much did repairs cost you? Looking for honest feedback before choosing where to take it. Thanks!

4 comment(s)

HMeyersRide

Had a similar situation with my 2017 BMW X3 last year. Same warnings and symptoms, ABS light, steering wheel vibration, and stiff power steering. Initial thoughts were tire pressure, but it turned out to be more complex. The faulty TPMS valve was actually masking a bigger issue, a failing wheel bearing and worn control arm bushings. These components were affecting both the steering and ABS system. My wheel bearing was pretty much gone, which explained the vibration and ABS warnings. Got it sorted at a certified shop. They had to replace the wheel bearing, control arm bushings, and the defective TPMS valve. It was a significant repair that needed immediate attention to prevent further damage to other components. Would definitely recommend getting it checked soon, as these symptoms usually indicate worn suspension components that can affect your safety. Best to have a certified BMW specialist look at it rather than a general mechanic.

lindasturm1 (Author)

Hey, thanks for sharing your experience! That's exactly what I was worried about, when one thing leads to another. Really helpful to know about the wheel bearing and control arm bushings connection to these symptoms. Do you remember roughly how much you ended up paying for all those repairs? And has everything been running smoothly since, or did you run into any other issues? Just trying to get an idea of what I might be looking at cost-wise and if it actually solved all the problems for good.

HMeyersRide

Hey there! Happy to give you an update. After I got everything fixed, it's been running like a charm. About the costs, my full repair ended up being around 1,450 € total (wheel bearing was 680 €, control arm bushings about 490 €, and that pesky TPMS valve was 280 €). The good news is that since the repair, I haven't had a single warning light pop up. The tire pressure warning that was driving me nuts is completely gone after they replaced that faulty valve. The steering feels smooth as butter now, and the vibration is history. I won't lie, it wasn't cheap, but considering how much better the car handles now, it was worth every cent. Plus, it's way better than waiting until something really goes wrong. Been about 8 months since the repair, and my X3 feels almost like new. Sometimes you just have to bite the bullet with these BMW repairs, you know? Let me know if you end up getting yours fixed, would be curious to hear if you're dealing with the same issues I had.

lindasturm1 (Author)

Thanks for the detailed breakdown! Just got back from a certified BMW shop actually. You were spot on, my repair bill came in at 1,600 € for pretty much the same issues. Had both front wheel bearings replaced, plus one control arm bushing that was completely shot. Got it back yesterday and honestly, it's like driving a different car! No more weird vibrations or heavy steering. That annoying ABS light is finally gone too. Mechanic showed me the old parts, they were in way worse shape than I expected. Glad I didn't wait any longer. Funny thing is, they found the tire pressure warning was just a dead sensor battery. Fixed that for a few bucks while they were at it. My wallet's definitely lighter, but at least I know the car's safe now. Thanks again for pushing me to get it checked out properly, saved me from potentially bigger problems down the road!

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