[E90beemerfan]

I know there have been some discussions regarding quality issues of the F30, and I would like to know if there is an issue with all M-sport adaptive sport suspension cars and the variable sport steering. I’ve got a February 2013 build car and there is a clunking sound when driving on bad surface roads. Potholes gives close to a rattle sound, but I guess “clunking” noise is a more correct description of the sound.

I have requested a return of the car, but my dealer is not willing to do this (I swapped a F10 530dA with a F30 328i MT). I’m of the opinion that a BMW should not make rattling or clunking noises when driving on bad roads. I enjoy the car a lot, but the uncomforting sound destroys the fun. My dealer has order a new steering rack for replacement, but I'm not sure if this will cure the noise. Any opinions?

Coming from a F10, the wind noise and quality feel is at a lower level in the F30, but the driving dynamics makes up for the lack of refinement. My big surprise was that the F30 is not that much smaller inside. It is not as wide and the trunk is smaller, but the difference is not enough to sacrifice the driving dynamics of the F30. It is so much more fun to drive! I will never go back to the F10 from the F30...

[claykin]

I'm guessing it has something to do with these running production changes.

http://www.realoem.com/bmw/showparts...50&hg=31&fg=10

I've noticed MY13 Adaptive M cars sound more "hollow" over bumps than MY14. That said, MY14 isn't perfect, but much better.

[E90beemerfan]

Originally Posted by claykin

I'm guessing it has something to do with these running production changes.

http://www.realoem.com/bmw/showparts...50&hg=31&fg=10

I've noticed MY13 Adaptive M cars sound more "hollow" over bumps than MY14. That said, MY14 isn't perfect, but much better.

Thank you for the information! I'm hoping changing the steering rack will help... The sound is more pronounced from the drivers seat.

I feel part of the compact feel of the 3 is lost because of this and I'm surprised that there are not more complaints about this issue.

[jokerswld34]

Had the same clunking sound from my 13 328 m with adaptive. Took it to the dealer and they ordered a new rack.

Try this:
While the car is parked and ignition is off, grab steering wheel and turn wheel from side to side with hood open. You should hear a similar clunk sound as when driving and can move wheel from 11-1. Do this in front if your SA and they'll get you a new rack.

[SomeRandomer123]

Same issue here, doesn't bother me too much but all the symptoms are consistent with yours. They had a look at service but couldn't diagnose it. They changed both front shockers but it didn't make any difference to the clunk.

[E90beemerfan]

Originally Posted by jokerswld34

Had the same clunking sound from my 13 328 m with adaptive. Took it to the dealer and they ordered a new rack.

Try this:
While the car is parked and ignition is off, grab steering wheel and turn wheel from side to side with hood open. You should hear a similar clunk sound as when driving and can move wheel from 11-1. Do this in front if your SA and they'll get you a new rack.

I have tried it and the clunk sound is very pronounced when doing like you mentioned above. I hope it will be fixed with a new rack, but I'm afraid this will follow the car. I hope not though. I love the car coming from a F10 and hope this issue will be solved. I cannot believe this is a normal sound for all F30's. I will report when the steering rack is replaced.

The car is fine as long as the road surface is smooth, but as soon as there are bumps and irregularities in the road, it sounds like there is something loose in the chassis. I never experienced this before (after 13 years with BMW cars).

[jokerswld34]

The new rack will completely fix it for you. Be adamant for the SA to focus on the rack. Only downside is new racks take several weeks to arrive and install. Good luck.