E36 suspension questions

[m3f_DMan_d62e5d4102]

Hey guys, I just wanted to ask if it was normal to feel some "jiggling" in the front suspension when I go over rough pavement? I not only feel this "jiggling" but I can also hear it. (Sorry I don't have a better word for "jiggling" but that's the best word I can think of right now to describe it). I've gotten it checked by 2 different mechanics, one private one who is a friend and also by a reputable service shop up north (Knauz) and both have told me there is nothing wrong with the suspension. The front splash guard was loose though so I had that retightened but I still I still feel the vibration over rough pavement so now I think it's just a characteristic of sports suspension. Anyone share similar experiences?



On a side note, my front tires actually hit the front end of the splash guards during tight turns (I can feel/hear them rubbing). My mechanic told me that was normal and when I turn the car should actually rise up on the outside part of the turn so that it doesn't hit the splash guard. It might do this on the right side, but I'm pretty sure it still rubs on the left side. I have a feeling this is why the splash guard got separated from the bolts holding it in place.

[m3f_Sirius_880bd69485]

Are you running OEM rims?



Our cars have good feedback from the road, so you'll fell it in the steering wheel.

[m3f_DMan_d62e5d4102]

Are you running OEM rims?



As far as I know they are. M-Contour or M-Contour II I believe to be exact. I think even the tires are stock (Contisport Contact).

[m3f_DMan_d62e5d4102]

Update: mechanic thinks I need a new rack and pinion now so I'm getting that done on Wed. He fastened the front splash guards about a month ago, but the drivers side one has come loose again. Hope that's not responsible for the knocking sound. Would a rack and pinion cause this kind of sound though I wonder? He said the suspension looked fine.

[m3f_DMan_d62e5d4102]

Update #2:



Well, new rack and pinion is in and the sound is still there! He called me today and now he thinks it's the front left strut mount. I had to rent a car so he could keep the M3 for a couple of days to wait for the part to come in. I think I need an M3 mechanic, not a "regular" bimmer one for future fixes.

[m3f_Sirius_880bd69485]

I think you need someone whos going to stop parting the car until the cars fixed.

[m3f_///sleeper_f29d08a5a4]

ha ha...man, that's the story every time my car sees a mechanic. "this is the culprit" 2days and 600 dollars later... " oh that didn't fix it! how bout this..."



I really woldn't worry about it...like Sirius said, these cars give a lot of feedback through the wheel...especially on rough roads. Also, my front tires rub too with stock wheels, it's a little lower, but nonetheless.

[m3f_tiMMM]

man, I swear..everytime I hear some sh!t like that about how some sh!t for brains mechanic doesn't have a clue and all they do is keep on parting out the car, I get PISSED as hell.... :fuming: bunch of fockin' thieves.. :ratatat: that's why I frickin' hate even the thought of bringin' the M to the damn stealership or any incompetent mechanic.... ee:



..personally, hope and pray that the mechanic is competent at what they're doing...ie...in other words, KNOW their sh!t...and then just trust them with any future work....dude, I feel for you....good luck with gettin that crap fixed right.

:thumbsup:

[m3f_DMan_d62e5d4102]

Fortunately all of this stuff has been covered by my extended warranty. All I'm out is my deductible (had my o2 sensors changed out too). Hmmm, new rack and pinion in my car now though, hope it doesn't make things worse...

[m3f_DMan_d62e5d4102]

Sweet, front left strut mount replaced and I'm still getting that knocking sound. I know my fender liners are loose on that side but he doesn't think that would cause it. Either way, I'm gonna get it fixed to rule it out entirely. Time to look for another mechanic though, at least another one who can diagnose things better...

[m3f_RitC3-M3]

Sounds like the struts themselves. How old are they?