Non-engine vibration, under power only - at higher speeds

[Davidonly]

Hi all,

today the spring weather meant I could press the loud pedal without so much fear of lost traction in my E46 M3 SMG

I noticed at near triple digit speeds some resonance or vibration, which could have been the road, but I got hints of it a few more times as my little blast progressed. Using lower gears I acertained that the engine revs right around to redline without such disturbance. Infact what an amazing powerplant its is!!!! Smooth and eager all the way, I had forgotten over the winter. (I was being tempted by Focus RS of late).

Once at speed, this 'noise/sensation' is entirely absent, so diff is probably ok?

Anyway, just wondered if there is any known wear item/fault that could lead to high speed vibrations under acceleration.

Car has BMW warranty so happy to get it sorted if I find anything at dealer....

[skeeterm5]

I had a high speed vibration on mine, only occured at higher speeds and generally when accelerating hard.

Turned out to be a wheel weight had come off one of the rear wheels, so one quick wheel balance later all was fixed.

S

[Davidonly]

Had another go (very early) this morning, no traffic what-so-ever, and found some nice smooth road. A quick up and down looking for 'hidden civil servants' and was good for a few test runs. Conclusion, must have been the road surface yesterday, only had one blast since roads not completely empty. This morning got her to 7500 RPM (ish) not quite as high as yesterday (but only 2.5C air temp). No sign of any vibration, just THAT howl 3rd and 4th OK too

I don;t drive this car enough.........its just so good, was nice to be reminded how special the M3 is. If I do notice any more vibration at high speed, will get all 4 wheel rebalanced. Thanks for the info.

[akita1]

Had identical problem on mine turned out front brake caliper was starting to seize(now seized)i to thought it was tyre noise as i dont use mine much give this a quick check normally excessive brake dust on the offending wheel.