Rear Roaring/Whining Noise

[TexasBMW]

My 94 318is w/ regular suspension makes moderately loud roaring, whining noise seemingly from right rear, but difficult to pinpoint. There is a small pulsating tremelo aspect to the sound also.

I've noticed a slight sensitivity to turns with a slight change in noise level.

Noise is fairly loud, but tolerable. I just drove ~ 2000 miles w/ no change in noise level.

My guess is a failing wheel bearing. Anyone have any experience with this noise that could confirm or offer another explanation?

I've found some good info on wheel bearing replacement (unofficialbmw.com), however the job appears to be challenging, and I don't want to perform this to find out the problem was something else. I plan to lift the wheels and inspect for bearing play. Anything else to check?

Thanks

[gregwils]

I had a rear bearing fail at 80k in a 95 325i. I started as a roaring noise at higher speeds, then when it got close to failing there waw some low speed "clunking".

It failed mid-week, so I ended up having a local shop repair it. They charged 4 hours, plus the part. One note: a local parts shop that has a great reputation for quality parts listed a bearing that did NOT fit. The shop had to go back to the dealer for the correct bearing. It may be a coincidence, but who wants to disassemble their car only to discover a part doesn't fit.

I purchased a puller and plan to do the other side myself. However, when I take it a part, I am going to replace bushings, shocks, rotor, pads, etc. at the same time. I don't mind investing my labor savings in new parts, then the car is nearly new and don't need to mess with that area for a while.

Good luck.

[TexasBMW]

Thanks to all for the information. I plan to lift back end and check bearings closely, and replace the bearings as indicated.

regards

[EXtech]

That sounds just like a wheel bearing. Be aware that replacing wheel bearings on these cars is NOT an easy task, so take the project on with deep thought. I have replaced MANY wheel bearings on all BMW's and even with the BMW specialty tools, it can still be very difficult. Just an FYI.