E46 323i Issues....
E46 323i Issues....
Author
Discussion

duggyp

Original Poster:

2 posts

214 months

Tuesday 16th December 2008
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Hi all, I've recently had a couple of issues that have started to creep in with my '2000 323i. First off, the traditionally bad handbrake has began to be next to no use whatsoever. Also, what began as the slightest knocking from the drivers side front wheel over small bumps as now turned into a clattering mess every bump or crease in the road, and also under slow speed braking. Am I correct in thinking that this will be the front wishbones ball joint? bushes?
The 3rd and final issue I've begun to notice is that from looking at the back of the car, is looks to be slightly listing to the drivers side.... but only from the rear, possibly an inch or 2's drop from left to right. She looks level and balanced looking at the front. Anyone had any experience or knowledge of these problems, advice, or idea's on prices charged for the above issues they've experienced????
Cheers

phelix

4,682 posts

279 months

Tuesday 16th December 2008
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The handbrake design is crap as it traps water which corrodes the braking surface - if it's really gone you'll probably need to replace the rear discs (the handbrake operates on a small drum inside the bell of the disc). The owner's manual recommends applying the handbrake periodically as the car is about to come to a stop to prevent too much corrosion building up on the operating face of the drum.

Probably rear front control bushes but if they're that bad the car must be wandering all over the place. Could also be rear trailing arm bushes.

Some listing to the right is fairly common and nothing to worry about. You can check the actual amount by using a tape measure to measure vertically from the lower edge of each rear wheel lip up to the edge of the wing. I think BMW allows 20mm difference side to side.

Shropshiremike

24,474 posts

233 months

Tuesday 16th December 2008
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phelix said:
Some listing to the right is fairly common and nothing to worry about. You can check the actual amount by using a tape measure to measure vertically from the lower edge of each rear wheel lip up to the edge of the wing. I think BMW allows 20mm difference side to side.
As said above, TADTS....but it may be worth checking your rear springs haven't snapped the bottom coil off.
You used to be able to get different height spring pads from BMW for them which can even it up slightly if it bothers you

duggyp

Original Poster:

2 posts

214 months

Wednesday 17th December 2008
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Cheers for all the replies, you've been a great help,

Dougie

BIG BAVARIAN

452 posts

240 months

Wednesday 17th December 2008
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handbrake pads need replacing,just done mine,rear spring snapped for sure if its listing a couple of inches,both mine were broken when i bought it and ball joints at the front all classic e46 failures