Steering wheel rumble - BMW Forum

newbimmerowner1 · 12-05-2007, 08:09 AM

Well, I'm new to posting threads, but I just bought a 1997 328i sedan and I'm getting crazy rumbling from the steering wheel when I go over certain bumps at highway speeds. Also, kinda sounds like a clunking noise in the left front wheel when I hit certain areas of the road, but not all the time. Any suggestions? Keep in mind the guy put 18" wheels on with low profile tires...Thanks

AlpineSixAndSeven · 12-05-2007, 02:15 PM

Check your Control arm Bushings, Ball Joints, and Tierods to start and see what that turns up..

newbimmerowner1 · 12-06-2007, 08:12 AM

Thanks, I'll be taking a look this weekend hopefully....he said he changed all the control arm bushings at 100k, and I'm at about 140k, so I'm guessing probably need replaced again?

chinonca · 12-06-2007, 09:55 AM

I agree with alpinesix&seven! Common problem on bmers with high mileage! Done alot of suspensions on these cars!!

bimmerguy82 · 12-07-2007, 02:01 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by newbimmerowner1

Thanks, I'll be taking a look this weekend hopefully....he said he changed all the control arm bushings at 100k, and I'm at about 140k, so I'm guessing probably need replaced again?

honestly, you should not have to replaced them after 40k unless you were tracking your car every day. but tierods could give it a wobble.

AlpineSixAndSeven · 12-07-2007, 11:01 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by newbimmerowner1

Thanks, I'll be taking a look this weekend hopefully....he said he changed all the control arm bushings at 100k, and I'm at about 140k, so I'm guessing probably need replaced again?

if they were ACTUALLY just replaced at 100k you should be fine mine are at 140k and still good all i need it a tierod probably the same for you just check them and post back

newbimmerowner1 · 12-07-2007, 11:23 AM

Yep, definitely the bushings...tie rod and everything else looks great...had my mechanic look it over as well just to be sure and that's all he could find too. Now the question is...where to get the bushings? I'm not getting them from the dealer, so does anyone know of some good ones on the market that may last longer? Thanks for your help guys...

chinonca · 12-07-2007, 11:48 AM

Try these guys pretty reasonable for OEM replacement parts! BMW Parts and BMW Accessories | Bavarian Autosport , BMP design : BMW Parts, BMW Accessories & BMW Replacement Parts.. I think they even have performance ones.

Marknhl · 12-07-2007, 12:40 PM

pelicanparts.com is also a very good site. I've used thepartsbin.com but I recently received the wrong part, reimbursement takes four weeks... idk if I'd recommend them.

newbimmerowner1 · 12-07-2007, 01:11 PM

What about polyurethane bushings? Are these ok for street cars, or would I be better off going with rubber?

AlpineSixAndSeven · 12-07-2007, 03:00 PM

it depends on your driving style.... if your a "sprited" driver go with the poly just for a to b ecno style rubber....

newbimmerowner1 · 12-07-2007, 03:58 PM

I decided to go with powerflex poly...they shipped out today...I'll let you guys know how they turn out...should get them tomorrow.

bimmerguy82 · 12-07-2007, 10:26 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by newbimmerowner1

What about polyurethane bushings? Are these ok for street cars, or would I be better off going with rubber?

I heard from guys that the poly ones make too much noise for everday use. unless you are tracking your car stick with rubber.

AlpineSixAndSeven · 12-08-2007, 05:30 PM

he ordered the poly flex ones... from what i know there not to bad... and if they are.... it is time for a stereo upgrade! lol