I have a 1982 240D with over 325,000 miles. In the past few thousand miles, I have noticed that my drivers side front wheel is riding a bit roughly, and makes knocking sounds when I hit bumps. It sounds a lot worse than it feels, however.

Also, when quickly accelerating (yeah right) and heavy breaking, it makes a quick knocking sound from the same area of the car.

What could this be? Struts? Sway Bar? Bushings? Is this a common problem with the early 80s W123s?


Thanks in advance.

Check the ball joints and upper control arm bushings. Are the wheels leaning in at the top? How is the alignment?

Check the castor box. Will cause noise on sharp bumps.

My 240D went 530,000 miles or so before needing any joints or bushings replaced. The most common cause I've seen of this is shocks. Grab the center of the shock and shake. If there is any lateral play, replace them.

It could very well be that it needs other attention, but it's easy to check this first.

After that, if you have a safe way to raise the vehicle and leave the wheels hanging, you can then shake and pry to see if there any points that have slack.

Good luck,