BMW Repair: BMW 3 series 2003 noisy suspension, control arm bushings, bmw 3 series


Question
Thank Tino for your quick response!! that was amzing!
The noise on the suspension is only at the front when driving rough roads and some pot holes.

I have to corss always a rough street which day by  day made me note more the noise.  

Well thanks for your advice

Carlos


-------------------------------------------
The text above is a follow-up to ...

-----Question-----
Hi Tino,

I own a 2003 BMW 3 series which started with some slight noise in the suspension, I suspected it could be the shocks so I changed, but the noise kept and increased to a clear sound. I asked some one to revise the suspension and check the joints bu still the noise continues. I wonder if could you give me some advice where should I look, I worry it could be some big trouble.
-----Answer-----
Hi Carlos,
Please tell me when you hear the noise--- always/intermittent; where-- front/rear/left/right; occurrence-- only on rough roads/pot holes, when turning, on the freeway at high speed, when braking, etc. Any additional information can help us diagnose your car's problem.
I do not want to shoot from the hip by giving you advise based on incomplete info (I might just waste your time).
Regards,
Tino

Answer
Hi Carlos,
I hope that it is not just body noise from a loose bumper or damaged lower engine covers and/or corner splash shields. And since you have just changed your front shocks, we can discount that too. Same thing with the ball joints and control arm bushings since you say that you have asked somebody to check them out. But I would suggest that you have the ball joints and tie rod connections to the king pin/spindle rechecked again. Also check their nuts for tightness (it should not loosen with 60 newton meters of torque).
If when the noise happens you do not feel anything in your steering wheel, then it is not the control arm bushings or
steering gear box, or steering u-joints (but it might be wise to have somebody move the steering wheel and check the upper and lower steering u-joints).
Next check the front crossmember bolts for tightness(2 big ones on both sides), and the engine supports (if it is damaged the engine or exhaust could hit the wall). Check also the bolts of the lower engine reinforcement plate.
Then the stabilizer bar bushings and connection to the front axle. Also the heat shields between the right side of the body and the exhaust manifold.
If you have not found it yet this far, have somebody check your front axle bearings.
I guess that pretty much covers everything.
Tino