Broken rear spring/ noise...arrgggh

[kylek325i]

OK so I still have not figured out what is causing the noise underneath my car. Today I replaced the rear shocks and mounts (with reinforcement plates) and its still doing it. Kind of a harsh clunking/ grinding coming from rear, I think more towards the driver's side. Like right under the rear seat (its a 4 door). Rear driver side spring is BROKEN, the last coil on the bottom is just sheared right off. Is this what is making such awful noises??? Defintely worse when making right turns. I know it isnt the drivetrain and doesnt feel like a trailing arm bushing; car does not pull. Heat shield seems fine. it is a 94 with 152k on it. used:

Thanks!!
Kyle

[Furious]

ah not uncommon, usually the very last coil will break off, you should replace it when you get a chance,

[kylek325i]

yeah I have heard of it happening, but could it be the cause of this noise?? I mean it sounds like a harsh grinding. Also it is pretty inconsistent although tends to be worst when that spring is loaded (acceleration, bumps, right turns). Does anyone know anything else it might be? I am also wondering what damage a broken spring can cause.
Thanks!

[kyle_baker]

Originally Posted by kylek325i

I am also wondering what damage a broken spring can cause.

hey kyle, welcome to the forums!

..broken springs can actually cause alot of damage. they are loaded with a great deal of pressure and they can break or break loose and fly wildly! also you really don't wanna lose your suspension when you are driving down the road at a decent speed. it can cause unpredictable results and chances are you might not be able to control the car, especially when spirited driving! other than the possible damage from the spring flying off or causing a wreck, the shock could get ruined as well as control arms, joints, etc...depending on the situation. now would be a good time to upgrade to some sportier springs or lower riding springs!

cheers...and cool name, lol

[///M Power]

I have some 1995 BMW M3 springs for sale with 70,000 miles on them. Had no sagging or problems when I took them out. Asking $100 for all 4. Rears are pretty stupid easy to replace! Takes only 10 minutes each. Fronts require you to rent a spring compressor (rent for free from autozone) and maybe 2 Hours.

[Furious]

you may wanna take a look at the spring pads to make sure that its still there or destroyed it can cause that type of noise for sure.

[bitcore]

Originally Posted by Furious

you may wanna take a look at the spring pads to make sure that its still there or destroyed it can cause that type of noise for sure.

yes, esp. since the spring has broken and now probably has a sharp edge against the pad. (can we say high pressure knife action?)

[kylek325i]

thanks for the replies!

I have been shopping for new springs but havent found any deals yet on stock-height springs...any kind of lowering spring seems to be cheapest. HOWEVER I live in Maine and our roads are terrible and although I would love to slam my car, it just is not a good idea as long as I will be driving on crappy Maine back roads. So, anyone know of a good place to get stock springs other than like BavAuto??

[///M Power]

The e36 M3 springs would lower your car just slightly and be stiffer for better handling.