BMW Blog

Hi all,

Sorry if this is vague, but I don't have much to go on. Recently, with the warm weather, I've started driving with the windows down on my 93 325is -- only to hear a not so pleasant noise coming through the passenger side window.

The noise sounds metallic -- the only noise I've heard that was similar was on my old car; it had metal gaskets which held things to exhaust and one of these was loose and clanking around when I hit bumps. A friend riding in the car confirmed the noise on the passenger side, saying that he'd guess it was somewhere around the rear wheel. I've poked around underneath in that area and couldn't find anything that would create the sound.

Given that I can only hear this sound with the windows up and there seems to be no real change in how the car handles/drives, I'm trying to guage what could be causing this and whether or not it's worth taking to a garage/$tealership. I know the car will need rear brake service soon, but I don't really think this would factor in. Other thoughts people have had included ball joints, gas tank cover, wheel bearings or maybe even something inside the door.

Anyone have any ideas? I'd appreciate any help/suggestions.
Thanks.

Your description is a bit vague, metal on metal sounds can vary tremdously.

But a loose heat shield of the exhaust is a common problem. Do you have anything loose in the door compartments that might be ratling?

Your description is a bit vague, metal on metal sounds can vary tremdously.

But a loose heat shield of the exhaust is a common problem. Do you have anything loose in the door compartments that might be ratling?

I don't think it's in the door compartment -- I opened up the sunroof to listen on the way to work this morning... I could still hear the sound but I still can't pinpoint the source...

I would guess no to the heat shield, the exhaust is on the opposite side of the car which the noise seems to come from. I'd also guess no on the door, I've tried slammin the door and such to recreate the noise but with no luck.

I really really don't want to take it to the $tealer... hmmmph.

Thanks.