strange noise

[spitfire06]

Hi guys.A strange like clanking sound has started to occur when ever i brake.The funny thing is it only starts to happen after Ive been driving for a couple of miles or so.Ive looked at bushes etc even made sure the brake callipers are tight and everything SEEMS to be ok.Any ideas?

[< FORZA WEST]

front or rear, what model?

[spitfire06]

It seems to be coming from the passenger side rear.Its a 318 e46.

[< FORZA WEST]

thats either the road spring has fractured or the trailing arm bushes have torn.....spring is the more likely.

what age is the 3?

[spitfire06]

Its a 1999 and thanks for the advice.Im only really capable of basic maintenance i.e servicing,brakes that sort of thing.Is this a job that I could tackle myself?And whats the best way to find out if its the trail arm or the spring.I dont know if this is relevant but the rear suspension above the same wheel(rear passenger side)does squeek and groan a bit.I couldnt say if this started the time as the knocking sound.As you mentioned a fractured spring could the two problems be related?

Edited by spitfire06 on Monday 2nd March 14:29

[< FORZA WEST]

the likely cause will be the spring or bushes on the N/S rear.

As its a 99 model year E46 I recomend its checked on a ramp asap, And have the rear subframe to floor mount checked for defect/cracking. upto and including model 99 year there was an issue in this area.

[DoubleYellow]

Coil Spring may have gone. Sounds about right.