Loud clunking/rumbling noise only when cold

MMGI518

MEMBER
1997 BMW 328
2.8L
6 CYL
2WD
AUTOMATIC
142,000 MILES

My 328i has a rumbling noise coming from somewhere. It has gotten louder over the last few days. It starts out really loud and noticeable when it is cold but almost completely goes away once everything is warmed up and you have driven around for a while. It is definitely tied to the wheel speed rather than the engine speed so it makes me think differential or transmission. Any help would be very appreciated.

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1 Reply

KEN L

MASTER CERTIFIED MECHANIC
48,363 POSTS

Hello,

The video was great I wish more of your people used this feature for noises. Here you here a drive-line speed which seem to go with the tire speed not driveshaft speed. I would lift the car up and check the rear CV axles. Try to turn the axles by hand to see if there is play or noise on one if them.

This guide will give you an idea of what you are in for when changing the axle out:

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/replace-cv-axle

and

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/jack-up-and-lift-your-car-safely

Below are diagrams of what it will be, like for your car.

Please let us know what happens.

Cheers, Ken

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