Steering wheel and gear stick vibration in BMW – how to fix?

BMW driver question – vibration at higher speeds

My problem is vibration of the steering wheel, body and gear stick. With higher revs and speed the problem intensifies. At 120 km/h until it’s scary to drive everything is shaking and telephoning.

The mechanics so far are spreading their hands. Here’s what has been replaced: wheels, tires, discs, pads, calipers, control arm pins and bushings, mangle, tie rods and ends, stabilizer rubbers, engine cushions, shock absorber cushions, hubs, box-shaft coupler. Nothing has helped. Where to look for the cause?

The problem was on the BMW 3 E36, but it may occur on other models as well.

BM Cars service answer – how to solve the problem of vibration in the BMW?

The described problem is related to the speed of the car and engine speed. Body vibrations transmitted to the steering wheel and gear stick indicate that the source of the problem is the drivetrain and transmission system.

The most common sources of speed-dependent vibration are crooked rims and tires distorted by improper storage – tires. It also happens that even minor rim distortions combined with inaccurate balancing add up, causing body resonance at certain speed ranges. Usually around 110-120 km/h.

As the speed increases, the vibration decreases, only to appear again at the next range around 180-200 km/h. Crooked half-shafts are also a very common source of such vibrations. Under the influence of the side impact of the rear wheel, the half-axle that transmits the drive to the wheel becomes crooked. The vibration of the half-axle causes a similar effect as a crooked rim or a distorted tire. Check the condition of:

• wheels/rims and tires during operation on the car and on the balancer, possible balancing of wheels on the car,
• drive half-shafts during operation for runout and play,
• drive shaft mounts – supports during work and possible balancing of the shaft,
• transmission cushions and transmission jack mounts.

We can perform all of the above at our service center by appointment.

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