where is that noise coming from

[zero4588]

Hi everyone,

As I had mentioned this before, I have some kinda of grinding noise coming possibly from the right-front part of the car. The noise can be heard when the car is accelrating gradually and decelerating. Recently, this noise- or I should say the grinding noise- is getting louder and accompanyed by subtle vibration to the steering wheel and door panel. By the way, I have a 98 E320. Can anyone tell me what's wrong with this car or piece of junk, should I say. What needs to be replaced and fixed? YOur response is greatly appreciated.

[y2kimmel]

This sounds like the symptoms of a bad wheel bearing. I had a BMW 635i and the right front bearing went out on me at about 105k miles.

The wheel bearings in any car will eventually have to be replaced. If your problem turns out to be wheel bearings - you may want to consider having the shop replace both front bearings at the same time. The left bearing might die soon - or it might last 100k more miles. Depends upon how deep your wallet is and your willingness to go to the shop again.

Regards,
Troy
1995 E420

[zero4588]

Yes, you are exactly right on the spot. Today, I took it to a mechanic I trust and it turned out to be a loose wheel bearing plus a couple of other things that created the sound. First, the wheel bearing is loose on both ends of the front tires. Second, I have a not so bad bent right wheel. Third, the mechanic thought that my Bridgestone SO3 is too harsh for everday driving. All these factors contribute to the noise and vibration. So he tightened the bearings and rebalanced the tires, which dramatically increases the car's drivability. Though the noise and subtle vibration is still there, he recommended me to switch to other tire brand as soon as my Bridgestone tires are worn to further reduce the noise and vibration. Anyway, thank you for your adivce.

[zero4588]

By the way, what is funny is that prior to bringing my car to this mechanic, I have brought my car in to a local dealer on two occasions, spending well over $182 for inspection. "Twice to the same dealership and they didn't find anything wrong with your car, isn't that strange," my wife asked me this evening. I thought may be they only know how to change oil. That's all. That is all they know best.