BMW Repair: 2001 325i w/sport pkg - rear left clanking noise, control arm bushings, wheel bearing

Question
Hello Evan,

My 2001 325i w/sport pkg makes a rear left noise that sounds like either something is loose or like an axel/CV is going out. It clanks on slow right turns and then stops as I speed up.  I have taken it to 2 independent BMW repair shops, first time 4 mo. second a month ago and each time they have test driven, put on the lift and inspected all, but the noise mysteriously stops before they can determine what it is. They are both stumped and now they look at me like I've gone nuts.  The clanking goes away for a couple of week then comes back and goes away.  It started again two days ago but I’m afraid to have them check it again only to find nothing.  Any ideas?

Thanks,
Dennis  

Answer
Dennis, check all the suspension bolts for looseness. Check control arm bushings for wear or cracking. If found to be tight (most likely are) then inspect CV boots for tears. If again okay, look at the brakes and hardware to make sure everything is where it is supposed to be. After this jack the rear end of the car up and securely place on jack stands. Turn the DSC off and run the car in drive and with a mechanics stethoscope (found at kragen, autozone, etc.) listen in the area where the CV axle enters the wheel bearing area and where the axle enters the differential. Most likely cause is a failing Left rear wheel bearing. If so or you notice more noise from this area then replace the wheel bearing, hub, and axle nut. Wheel bearings are very common.
-Evan