Steering System Explained: 1995-1999 BMW M5 Steering Linkage and Boots
Shopping for a rack and pinion bellows for your E34 or E39 M5? Read this first to avoid buying the wrong parts.
- The 1995 E34 M5 and 1999 E39 M5 do not have a rack and pinion; they use a recirculating ball steering box.
- Do not buy a 'Rack and Pinion Bellows Kit' as it will not fit. You need tie rod assemblies or boots.
- Worn linkage boots lead to worn joints, causing clunking sounds and loose steering.
- Always perform a wheel alignment after replacing any steering linkage components.
A Critical Note for M5 Owners
Before you search for a "Rack and Pinion Bellows Kit" for your M5, it's important to understand your vehicle's specific steering setup. The model years 1995 through 1999 cover the end of the E34 generation and the beginning of the E39 generation. Neither the E34 M5 nor the V8-powered E39 M5 sedan came from the factory with a rack and pinion system. They use a traditional recirculating ball steering box. This was a deliberate choice by BMW for their V8 models of the era, while the six-cylinder E39s did receive rack and pinion steering.
This means a rack and pinion bellows kit will not fit your vehicle. You are likely looking for the protective boots that cover the various ball joints on your steering linkage, such as the inner and outer tie rod ends.
Symptoms of Worn Steering Linkage Boots
The rubber boots on your tie rod ends serve the same purpose as a rack and pinion bellow: they keep grease in and contaminants out. When they fail, you won't get an immediate check engine light, but you will notice other issues over time.
- Visible Cracks or Tears: The most obvious sign is a visual inspection. If the rubber boots on your tie rod ends or other steering joints are cracked, split, or missing, they need to be replaced.
- Grease Leakage: A torn boot will allow the grease that lubricates the ball joint to escape, often appearing as a dark, greasy mess around the joint.
- Clunking or Popping Noises: Once the grease is gone and dirt gets in, the ball joint will wear out. This leads to excessive play in the joint, causing clunking sounds when turning the steering wheel, especially at low speeds.
- Loose or Vague Steering: As the joints wear, the steering will feel less precise. You may notice the steering wheel has more play, or the car wanders on the road.
Choosing the Right Aftermarket Parts
Since you will be buying tie rod ends or tie rod assemblies (which include new boots) rather than a bellows kit, quality is key. The steering system on an M5 is subject to significant forces. Using high-quality components is essential for maintaining the car's performance and safety.
Aftermarket Brand Tiers for Steering Components
| Tier | Brands | Quality & Notes |
|---|---|---|
| OEM Supplier | Lemförder, TRW | These brands are original equipment suppliers to BMW. Choosing them is the closest you can get to buying a genuine BMW part without the dealership price tag. Quality, fit, and longevity are excellent. |
| High-Quality Aftermarket | Febi Bilstein, Meyle HD | These are reputable German brands that offer high-quality replacement parts. Meyle's "HD" line often features redesigned, more robust components than the original. They are a solid choice for a balance of price and performance. |
| Standard Aftermarket | Various | Many other brands exist. While some may offer acceptable quality, they can be a gamble. For a critical system like steering on a performance vehicle, it is generally recommended to stick with OEM suppliers or top-tier aftermarket brands. |
Pro Tip: Replace, Don't Just Re-boot
While it is sometimes possible to find just the rubber boots, it's often not worth the labor. If a boot is torn, it's highly likely that the joint has already been contaminated. The best practice is to replace the entire tie rod end or the complete center drag link assembly. This ensures all related components are new and tight, restoring steering precision.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why doesn't my E39 M5 have rack and pinion steering?
BMW continued to use the recirculating ball steering box on its V8-powered E39 models, including the M5, while using rack and pinion on the 6-cylinder models. This was likely due to packaging constraints in the engine bay with the larger V8 engine. The steering box system was a proven, robust design used in previous M5 generations.
Are there any recalls for the 1995-1999 M5 steering system?
Searches for recalls or Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) related to the steering boots or linkage for the E34 and E39 M5 did not reveal any specific campaigns. Issues with these parts are typically considered wear-and-tear items.
Can I replace the steering linkage boots myself?
Yes, replacing the tie rods and center link is a feasible DIY job for someone with mechanical experience and the right tools. You will need a good set of metric wrenches, a torque wrench, and a ball joint separator (often called a pickle fork). However, a professional wheel alignment is absolutely necessary after the replacement to ensure proper handling and prevent premature tire wear.
What is a Servotronic steering system?
Servotronic is BMW's speed-sensitive power steering system. It provides more steering assistance at low speeds (like parking) to make the wheel easy to turn, and less assistance at high speeds for better stability and road feel. Both the E34 and E39 M5 featured versions of this system.
Technical Specifications
OEM Part Numbers: 32211096059 (Center Tie Rod/Drag Link for E39 M5) 32111139313 (Tie Rod Assembly for E34 M5)
Steering System Type: Recirculating Ball with Hydraulic Power Assist (Servotronic)
The information in this article is provided for general reference and educational purposes only. Vehicle specifications, procedures, and part compatibility can vary by production date, trim level, and region. Always consult your vehicle's factory service manual and verify part numbers before purchasing or performing repairs. Safety-critical components such as airbags, seat belts, and braking systems should be installed by a qualified professional.
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