E39 front suspension

[forsure]

My '00/W, low mileage (79k), fsh, 528i has just passed its MoT with a clean sheet.
Which is great, I was pretty sure it was a good one.

However, I'm aware that something in the front suspension or steering is slightly worn.
I intend to discuss it with my local specialist, but would like to have some idea of what the problem might be before I go.

Symptoms are a 'rubbery' wobble through the steering-wheel when taking speed-bumps at anything above walking-pace, and when braking on a loose/uneven/slippery surface (the ABS cuts in and sets off the 'wobble').

I'm thinking track-control arm bushes.

If I'm right, is it new bushes or new track-control arms required ?
Or could it be something else?

Would be grateful for any advice/comments,
Thanks.

[alan530]

Mine is exactly the same (2003 530d MSport 106k) - very disconcerting the first time it happens - I posted a similar question and didn't get much of a response either. I've had the wheels balanced and it made a big difference. Still think that the bushes will need replacing though.

[aarondrs]

I posted a similar question yesterday, I'm going to have a good look tomorrow and see what needs doing and IF I can do it myself. Not sure if I can get the relevant bushes 'off the shelf' but will see.

[HRG.]

How long/easy a job is it to do the track control arm bushes? Mine has a small steering wobble and this is usually cited as the cause.

[aarondrs]

Not sure, if I do get it done at the weekend I'll let you know

[alan530]

Eurocarparts have all the necessary bits (this is for a 2003 model):

http://www.eurocarparts.com/ecp/c/BMW_5+Series_530...

Not the easiest of jobs - bushes and bolts can be difficult to remove - would advise you get the job done at a good local garage.

[aarondrs]

alan530,

cheers for advice. I may well check what they say. DOnt want a failure half way to S of France.

[trickywoo]

Mine does this as well. The garage I took it to said all fives have a bit of play and its normal. Its passed a few MOTs since I noticed it with not even an advisory.

[Jez49]

My 530 sport had this at around 95k miles.

Changed the track control arms and it transformed it, the car had also just passed an MOT and various people thought the bushes were fine but they had obviously gone soft.

Get the ZF Lemforder remanufactured arms from GSF as they are Original Equipment suppliers, I wouldn't get the cheaper ones.

A couple of ball joints need to be split to remove the arms as the other suspension arm had to be undone at one end to get them out, not difficult as long as you have the right tools. Its worth getting the tracking checked afterwards.

Jez

[HRG.]

The GSF ones looked cheaper than the ECP ones.

[Jez49]

There are two types available at GSF, they dont list the price for the decent ones but from memory they are around £75 each.

Jez

[Pickled Piper]

Just had mine done. Got everything from GSF and can confirm that the part are all identical to the original BMW just cheaper. The front arms can be rebushed. The wishbone can just be changed completely.

pp