rear-end noise

[docsafi]

I have a strange "clunk" that comes from the rear end of my 2000 323i. It happens when accelerating from a stop. It sorta sounds like cv joint but I've checked them and they are tight. Has anybody ever had trouble with the differential on these cars? The car has 70K on it and has the cold weather package and m-technik sport package. Any help appreciated.

Thanks
Rick

2000 323i
1987 Porsche 951
1987 Range Rover

***Loooking for a 1983 VW GTi in good shape****

[pdremer]

I have what sounds like the same problem. I took my car to a local independant shop to have the diff checked. They said its fine. However I am not happy with the clunk. So ....one of these days I'm going to replace or rebuild it. Replacing is not so bad from what I've read. Tho obviously more expensive than rebuilding. Rebuilding a diff is something I have never done and am unsure of doing. So if I can get the cost of replacement down, thats what I will do. I've heard used diffs are 700-800. New from dealer 1300-1400.

[MattM20is]

sounds like your guibo (flex disc) is worn

[pdremer]

OK I'll bite......Whats the flex disc?

[rjp325i]

The flexible coupling (flex disc or guibo) between the front section of the driveshaft and the transmission is made of rubber. The coupling deteriorates with harsh weather, heat and age, as well as the twisting torque of the drivetrain. Check the coupling for cracks, tears, missing pieces or distortion. Use new self locking nuts when replacing. The above is from the Bentley manual.

[vol96]

10-4 Thanks for the explanation. I'll check it.

[gpjones]

I don't know if this is a flex disc. However, I had the same problem with my '99 328i. It turned out to need a transmission output flange repair kit. Since there is a kit for this I assume this is an ongiong problem.

[vol96]

I've considered that my problem may be something other than the diff, such as the trans connection to the driveshaft, or even something in the trans.

However, the clunk I hear is definately coming from behind the rear seats. This leads me back to the diff as my problem.

[bimmerdog]

I would also check the rear shock tower mounts as a possibility if all else checks out.

[atlporsche]

my vote was the shock mounts...M3's do it...I hear they all do...

sjd

[Jared at Pelican Parts]

I say the shock mounts as well. It's a pretty common problem with these cars. The good news is that replacement is pretty easy to do.

[atlporsche]

my vote was the shock mounts...M3's do it...I hear they all do...

sjd

[krauthead]

My wife's 2000 323 had the differential replaced at 46K due to a whine throughout the entire speed range. BMW put an entire differential unit in under warranty.

[vol96]

Wish I could get my diff replaced under warranty. Unfortunately, my car has 72k miles on it.

[mankiks323i00]

i have the same problem. i replaced my shocks and mounts but it will not be that. i think it is what gpjones has said i myself have not fixed it yet but will eventually