E39 530d "Tankslapper"!!??

[alan530]

Just taken delivery of a 2003 530d Sport - standard wheels and tyres fitted. Twice in the last week I've experienced what can only be described in motorcycle terminology as a "tankslapper". Slowing down to a junction (sub 20mph) hit a pothole whilst applying the brakes, severe judder (feels like ABS cutting in), and at the same time the front wheels feel as though they are not connected to the axle. Any idea whats going on? I've had the wheels balanced in the meantime. There is no vibration/Judder at any other speeds.

[Nick M]

My immediate reaction was "dampers ??".

But then you'd probably also notice something if you went over a bump at higher speeds too.

[HellDiver]

Go to EuroCarParts and buy yourself a new set of Bilstein shocks. Get your local garage to fit them. Problem solved.

[christer]

This is just the ABS.....you do NOT automtically need new suspension as some idiot has suggested

[aarondrs]

Not an unusual feeling in those circumstances I wouldn't have said. I've certainly felt similar in my 530i and in a number of other vehicles in the last too.

Not sure I would call it a tank slapper though. I had one of those in my XJS when the back end swung from one side oversteer to the other, which is what i would refer to as a 'tankslapper'... happy to be put right on this though.

[TheEnd]

It may be damper related, but that isn't enough info to go on yet.
I believe you are feeling the ABS cutting in when the wheel hits an object and bounces slightly, momentarily reducing grip.

[philmots]

Maybe suspension bushes if they're anything like the e46. Bit of slack in the suspension could cause some vibration.

[asbo]

5's and 7's are notorious for this sort of behaviour when suspension bushes/dampers/top mounts become worn.

The problem is locating the specific fault as it could be a number of things. Your best option though is to get the car inspected. It sounds like it's driving like a bag of bolts at the moment.

[alan530]

Thanks for all the reply's - I'll get the suspension components checked over

[monthefish]

aarondrs said:

Not sure I would call it a tank slapper though. I had one of those in my XJS when the back end swung from one side oversteer to the other, which is what i would refer to as a 'tankslapper'... happy to be put right on this though.

Correct.

Tankslapper.