Weird knocking/Tapping

[Ethos123]

Hi there

For the past month or two theres been a frustrating knocking or tapping from the front end of my BMW.
It mostly noticeable at lower speeds, say under 40mph.
So, ive had the tyres changed, had new discs and pads. Had a major service.
It doesnt seem to be coming from either side, its more of a central noise, and is there whether accelarating or braking or even coasting, The rate of the noise is consistant with the engine speed/road speed.

Its a 2010 E91 and has 90K. Im at a loss. Any help would be appreciated.

[Mr2Mike]

Ethos123 said:

The rate of the noise is consistant with the engine speed/road speed.

It has to be one or the other, it can't be both unless your car is stuck in one gear. Does the noise appear when the engine is running but the car is stationary?

[Ethos123]

Hiya.

My mistake. Its not there when the car is stationary.

[Ethos123]

Also its an automatic...im just throwing this out there because ive no idea what it can be

[Mr2Mike]

Could be something like a loose undertray or arch liner that's flapping in the wind.

[Ethos123]

ill check those things thank you.

[Ethos123]

I have had a look underneath the car for loose panelling, wheel arch lining etc and theres nothing that can move in the wind. Can anyone else suggest what noises like a tapping or knocking could be related to road speed?

[GreyGirl]

Hi, this is my first post here but I am unable to get into the Speed/Plod chatroom to ask my question for 14 days, so I'm hoping to get in quicker by providing some sort of help, if I can.

We had a similar noise and it came up in the MOT that a section of anti-roll bar behind the right wheel needed replacing, husband did so, MOT duly granted and the noise has abated.

[Ethos123]

Hiya, that was suggested before to me but the noise is too consistant and to be that. :-)

[GreyGirl]

Ethos123 said:

Hiya, that was suggested before to me but the noise is too consistant and to be that. :-)

Yes, on reflection it was a knocking upon turning and/or first driving off. Hmm.

[Ethos123]

Solved...it was front passenger side tyre, had a small bulge/lump on it, after all that fuss...a flipping tyre :-)