"Pop" noise from the front end (E46 325 SMG)

[Bruce_Z]

Dear Forumers,Ive been experiencing this "pop" noise coming from the front end (right side) when I turn the steering wheel to the left, from straight, at slow speed. Seems to be intermittent. Any ideas where the fault is? Front suspension bearings? Steering joint? Have yet to take it to anywhere for diagnosis.

 

[E46Fanatic]

Steering U joint? COuld also be ball joint or control arm bush.

 

[samhun]

i had this experienced, but mine sounds like clok clok when turning left...after a while...sounds obviouly heard from right side at straight line driving too. But after the front lower arm changed, it turns my bimmer like new car.

 

[k3nny]

The E46's control arm bushings are notorious for premature failure.

Check that out?

 

[Bruce_Z]

Thanks for your suggestions...

Talked to Stuttgart, they say it could be anything...steering joint etc...I will have it looked at tomorrow. Seems the sound also happen when the car goes thru a soft bump now (when the tyres are dropping down to the meet the ground, but not on compression i.e. when hitting a bump)...Steering seems to be a little light at some points too, funny.

 

[stevetbs]

Reply from steve on front pop noise.

hi, everyone here. I am steve from kuching. I have the same problem with my 2liter e46. my service agent says it is the front lower arm's rubber bush.

my started after 3 years of usage & the noise increases with time. however, recently the noise is gone for no reason after I did a good car wash to the under carriage.

kind of funny, but my mechanic say the we can delay the repair for a year or so from its start. no hurry or major worry needed provide you don't drive too fast.