E36 all over the road

[tsopanos]

Hi all,
I have a 1996 318i and lately it has been a handfull to keep in a straight line.
I removed the tyres and noticed the left front was a little worn on the inside but the rear left was very worn on the inner.
I took it to Beaurepairs to get a wheel allignment and they couldn't figure out what was causing the rear tyre to wear that way.
My wife swears she hasn't hit any gutters.
Any ideas?
thanks
Greg

[Dave at Pelican Parts]

Sounds like you've got toe-out in front.

--DD

[Jeron]

Alignment or worn suspension

I cant imagine an alignment shop that cant diagnose and repair uneven tire wear.

[Tatted85]

Improper tire pressure?

[tsopanos]

Thanks for the replies,
Tyre pressure has been fine. The front was out a little but the rear still remains a mystery. They didn't find any worn components, and the rear tyre was down to the wires almost. (on the inner edge)
I spoke with the guy from Beaurepairs today and he told me they had no idea why the rear tyre was out.
They recommend a BMW dealer. Looks like it will be a costly experience...

[Dave at Pelican Parts]

It still sounds a lot like there is a good bit of toe-out on the rear wheels. That will eat the inner edge of the tire pretty quickly, especially when combined with negative camber (which your car should have, I believe). It will also result in a car that is not very stable going in a straight line.

--DD

[stupenal]

The rear trailing arm bushings may be the culprit. I was experiencing significant rear tire wear, and a floaty rear suspension in turns. Replaced the bushings and now all is fine. If you have over 100k miles on your car, definitely replace them.