Rear suspension noise (not shock mounts) - BMW Forum

Hogfisch · 12-18-2003, 07:22 AM

Hi all,

I am new to this forum although not new to BMW ownership (E30 320SE, E36 328 Touring and currently an E36 320) and am having problems locating some rear suspension noise on the 320 which I thought was rear shock top mounts.

Having replaced them, the noise is still there - almost like a constant rumbling when going over even small bumps, seems to get worse at lower speeds although doesn't seem to change much in noise with change in direction (would this rule out anti-roll bar links?). The rear suspension seems to have quite a lot of bushes - could one of these be worn (the car is a 1991 model 4 door with 150k miles)?

I have tried a search on the topic but am getting an error message every time. Is there anyone that can help? From experience of owners forums they are normally THE place to find knowledgable folks.

Many thanks

Howard

P.S. Happy Xmas

pooskay · 12-18-2003, 08:29 AM

i have the same problem as you...kinda like a rattling/ringing sound...but doesnt make a sound when you apply your brakes over bumps?? This is the problem i have, i also replaced my rear shock mounts, but im still hearing the noise...i've read that it could be loose cables for the e-brake, or some sort of metal clip on the rear brakes.

Furious · 12-19-2003, 06:35 PM

hey hogfisch have you checked your shocks? check for bleeding, and thank you for the merry x-mas,,, pooskay check to see if your shock mounts arent gone, and or that you havent broken the tip of your spring off.

Hogfisch · 12-20-2003, 05:03 AM

Thanks for the response so far guys. Pooskay - the sound is definitely more of a thump over a rattling. And Furious - rear shocks don't show any leaking. I am inclined to think it is bushes. I have the use of a hydraulic lift next week so will jack the car up and see what is what.

Cheers

Howard

angrygerman · 12-20-2003, 05:16 AM

howard-
I have exactly the same problem with my car.
And I also have no signs of anything leaking and put a new shock in just a few days ago.
Hope you can keep me and everyone else posted what you come up with next week.
GL
JJ

Scarface · 12-20-2003, 10:42 AM

I might have a similar problem. After I installed my coilovers on my car, when I hit a slight bump or a hard bump I hear a clanking sound. I cannot tell if it is coming from the front or the rear but it seems to be on both sides.

Furious · 12-20-2003, 12:25 PM

ok its kinda of a long shot, but since its winter time for most, can you guys check your spare tire to make sure its secure. it could be hopping ever so slight

Hogfisch · 12-29-2003, 06:18 PM

Good call Furious - turns out the rear shocks were bad. Although no visible signs (leaks etc.) or the classic bounce test showed nothing on rebound, when bouncing the back end, you could feel on both shock bodies some thumping from inside. Would also explain why I thought it was top shock mounts - the noise was transmitting up the shock to the mount itself.

Anyhow, I changed both rear shocks - no more noise!