2000 E320 wagon hard steering at low speeds

[davidlee]

I notice that when i am backing out of a driveway or pulling into a parking spot or trying to parralel park the car, the power steering seems like it is only working at 50%. i checked the p/s fluid level and all is good. any ideas?
it doesnt seem to make a differance if i bring it off idle either.

[Mxfrank]

Bad steering racks aren't uncommon with w210's. But get it up on a lift or jacks and check all the front suspension components. A bad tie rod end could also explain it.