i know this has been asked before but..

[polar]

i can't seem to find any info by searching for it

here's my problem:

i seem to have some shaking in the steering wheel at very specific speed: it only occurs between about 40-50mph and is pretty much undetectable above or below that speed.

furthermore, it only seems to happen after i have driven to car for about 15 minutes (i would guess that has heated things up!) and strangely enough if i stop and park and let the car and let it cool off for an hour the shaking will not return until i get things hot again!

the shaking disappears when i step on the brakes, but there is a slight "pumping" feeling from the brake pedal.

is this a warped rotor issue or is it a suspension problem?

thanks!

 

[frolf]

my initial thoughts:

-warped rotor

-unbalanced tires/inflation problem

-allignment

 

[polar]

thanks frolf...i just checked all the tire pressure yesterday, everything was good there.

i thought i read somewhere that you aren't supposed to do alignments on bmw's? is that not true?

and is there a sure way to check my rotors? will a visual inspection tell me if they are warped?

 

[mikev]

thanks frolf...i just checked all the tire pressure yesterday, everything was good there.

i thought i read somewhere that you aren't supposed to do alignments on bmw's? is that not true?

and is there a sure way to check my rotors? will a visual inspection tell me if they are warped?

if you spin your front wheels while off the floor you can visually see any jerking caused by anything catching!

 

[frolf]

you might be able to check it yourself if you rotor is seriously f-ed. but don't just swap rotors, make sure you change pads too, because a warped rotor molds a warped pad, so the new rotors would simply warp again.

 

[polar]

wicked, thanks for the quick responses guys!

i'll put the car up on stands tomorrow and see how those wheels turn off the ground.

 

[frolf]

keep in mind, a mm of misallignment would be noticeable at 40mph.

don't worry, there will be many more experienced people (hopefully) chiming in soon.

 

[CTBMW]

I would like to guess alignment, just had rotors, pads done. Tires are speed balanced,pressure is perfect. The ONLY thing I can blame it on is alignment-OR my Pass. side ball joint. (some play there)
Assuming there is no play in your tires when you try to shake them I would guess alignment-I get the same vibration-I don't even need to look at speedo-I know when I'm doing between 39 and 42 mph.
Let us know what you find out!
-Mel

 

[Kenny2g]

I was the one that asked that question.
I also have a 92' 325I.
I think you either have an unbalanced wheel, or DEFINATELY the Lower Ball Joint. Just got mine changed about 3weeks ago and my shit is not tight as a mog.
Hope this helps.