Vibration when Coasting on Motorway

Chris335dF31 · 08-09-2018, 08:26 AM

Been chasing a vibration issue on the car for a while now and recently noticed that it only occurs when easing off the accelerator and coasting. Accelerate, put the engine back under load and everything is smooth again. Most noticeable at motorway speed and the vibration is through the seat rather than the steering wheel.

Having already swapped out all 4 wheels, 4 new balanced tyres and a Hunter 4 wheel alignment I am now thinking drivetrain.

Another visit to the dealer is imminent but any help in pointing them towards a diagnosis appreciated.

Thanks.

ROCKETRON · 08-09-2018, 10:35 AM

Sounds like prop shaft balance or u/j starting to go

MarkG_M5Comp · 08-11-2018, 01:28 AM

Funnily enough I have a Qashqai rental car on holiday right now which does the same. To me if feels like the auto gearbox clutches juddering under engine braking.

Try knocking it into neutral - if it stops the problem is drivetrain related, if not its wheels/balancing or bearings etc.

GEP77 · 08-11-2018, 01:52 AM

Are you actually coasting in Eco Pro or have you just lifted off?

Are there any unusual noises at the same time?

Craig-SM · 08-11-2018, 02:56 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by ROCKETRON

Sounds like prop shaft balance or u/j starting to go

This ^

Chris335dF31 · 08-11-2018, 03:12 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by GEP77

Are you actually coasting in Eco Pro or have you just lifted off?

Are there any unusual noises at the same time?

No eco-poo, just lifting off the throttle. No noises either.

Chris335dF31 · 08-11-2018, 03:13 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by MarkG_M3CP

Funnily enough I have a Qashqai rental car on holiday right now which does the same. To me if feels like the auto gearbox clutches juddering under engine braking.

Try knocking it into neutral - if it stops the problem is drivetrain related, if not its wheels/balancing or bearings etc.

Thanks Mark - I will try this.

ROCKETRON · 08-11-2018, 03:52 AM

If it’s propshaft balance then it could still do it in neutral as the propshaft will still be turning, only difference being it is rotated by the rear wheels instead of the engine.

Chris335dF31 · 08-11-2018, 04:04 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by ROCKETRON

If it's propshaft balance then it could still do it in neutral as the propshaft will still be turning, only difference being it is rotated by the rear wheels instead of the engine.

Thanks Rocketron. Would it at least rule out gearbox/engine element of drivetrain I'm guessing?

I didn't realise until reading up online that there were so many bushes in/around the drive shaft. The 'Guibo' in particular. Car is nearly 6 years old and has done 115k.

Sasquartch · 08-11-2018, 04:19 AM

At 115k there's quite a lot of potential for anything rubber.to be worn out.
Guibo is a good call
However it needs to be up on a ramp and everything closely inspected, do you have any friendly MOT stations nearby as that will be cheaper than getting a main dealer to investigate
Are there any clunks either from the suspension or when taking up the drive ?

MarkG_M5Comp · 08-11-2018, 05:02 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by ROCKETRON

If it's propshaft balance then it could still do it in neutral as the propshaft will still be turning, only difference being it is rotated by the rear wheels instead of the engine.

Quote:

Originally Posted by Chris330dF31

Quote:

Originally Posted by ROCKETRON

If it's propshaft balance then it could still do it in neutral as the propshaft will still be turning, only difference being it is rotated by the rear wheels instead of the engine.

Thanks Rocketron. Would it at least rule out gearbox/engine element of drivetrain I'm guessing?

I didn't realise until reading up online that there were so many bushes in/around the drive shaft. The 'Guibo' in particular. Car is nearly 6 years old and has done 115k.

Yeah - the reason I left it off my list

I'd guess if it is a prop shaft it may be less pronounced in neutral.

Please report back OP

Chris335dF31 · 08-12-2018, 04:01 AM

Going to try neutral today but wondering if I can damage the gearbox if I then re-engage drive, due to the relative difference in rpm of the driveshaft and engine/gearbox?

Would I be better trying on an off slip where I can bring the car to a stop before re-engaging drive?

Jeff123 · 08-12-2018, 05:37 AM

I have done this many times, just messing about to relieve the boredom. Knock it into neutral and it coasts, then just stick it back in drive again.

Chris335dF31 · 08-12-2018, 05:41 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Jeff123

I have done this many times, just messing about to relieve the boredom. Knock it into neutral and it coasts, then just stick it back in drive again.

Thanks Jeff. Thought I might be over thinking it - thanks for putting my mind at rest.

Chris335dF31 · 08-12-2018, 08:18 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by MarkG_M3CP

Quote:

Originally Posted by ROCKETRON

If it's propshaft balance then it could still do it in neutral as the propshaft will still be turning, only difference being it is rotated by the rear wheels instead of the engine.

Quote:

Originally Posted by Chris330dF31

Quote:

Originally Posted by ROCKETRON

If it's propshaft balance then it could still do it in neutral as the propshaft will still be turning, only difference being it is rotated by the rear wheels instead of the engine.

Thanks Rocketron. Would it at least rule out gearbox/engine element of drivetrain I'm guessing?

I didn't realise until reading up online that there were so many bushes in/around the drive shaft. The 'Guibo' in particular. Car is nearly 6 years old and has done 115k.

Yeah - the reason I left it off my list

I'd guess if it is a prop shaft it may be less pronounced in neutral.

Please report back OP

Tried 'flicking' into N (carefully selected as so scared of hitting R!) and vibration is the same as coasting in gear. Re-apply throttle and disappears again.

Put her up on ramps and had a good look underneath. Guibo looks ok, outer coating flaky but main rubber not perished - hard to tell if worn really. Rest of driveshaft is covered by heatshield. Rotates 5-10 degrees by hand until it hard stops within the diff. Guess this is normal? Gave the rear axles a good shake and no play.

Whilst down there noticed this bracket on the exhaust but there is nothing to attach it to?

MarkG_M5Comp · 08-12-2018, 09:17 AM

Do you have a local garage that does on-car wheel balancing?

You need to rule out anything going on at the hub /wheel which I would think is far more likely that shafts (although not of course impossible).

Recap - does the vibration come through the car/steering wheel/central tunnel???

Very odd.

The only thing I had which was similar was the suspected faulty transfer box on my X5 bit yours is sDrive right?

Chris335dF31 · 08-12-2018, 10:35 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by MarkG_M3CP

Do you have a local garage that does on-car wheel balancing?

You need to rule out anything going on at the hub /wheel which I would think is far more likely that shafts (although not of course impossible).

Recap - does the vibration come through the car/steering wheel/central tunnel???

Very odd.

The only thing I had which was similar was the suspected faulty transfer box on my X5 bit yours is sDrive right?

Yep correct - Sdrive. Vibration feels like chassis rather than wheels. There is no left-right movement in steering wheel like I'd expect for a balance issue?

Don't get me wrong - it doesn't feel like the car is going to fall apart or anything - I just know something is not right. It feels so much smoother when engine is under load.

Think it's one of those where I'm going to have to go out with the mechanic driving it to make sure he experiences it.

MarkG_M5Comp · 08-12-2018, 01:00 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Chris330dF31

Quote:

Originally Posted by MarkG_M3CP

Do you have a local garage that does on-car wheel balancing?

You need to rule out anything going on at the hub /wheel which I would think is far more likely that shafts (although not of course impossible).

Recap - does the vibration come through the car/steering wheel/central tunnel???

Very odd.

The only thing I had which was similar was the suspected faulty transfer box on my X5 bit yours is sDrive right?

Yep correct - Sdrive. Vibration feels like chassis rather than wheels. There is no left-right movement in steering wheel like I'd expect for a balance issue?

Don't get me wrong - it doesn't feel like the car is going to fall apart or anything - I just know something is not right. It feels so much smoother when engine is under load.

Think it's one of those where I'm going to have to go out with the mechanic driving it to make sure he experiences it.

Doesn't sounds great does it - seems to be leaning towards prop-shaft/drive shaft or gearbox.

Best of luck from here.

6times7 · 08-12-2018, 02:41 PM

I had a similar issue on my F31, a slight vibration at 80mph which was more pronounced off throttle, and through seat/chassis rather than steering wheel.

The wheels had all been balanced when new tyres were fitted (19's with MPS4S) and I'd had the car aligned a couple of times after fitting B16 coilovers. I had a BMW indy look at it who felt UJ's were worn and could do with replacing, which wasn't looking like a cheap operation...

Just on the off chance, I took it in for a Hunter Road Force balance which completely sorted it for £50...

Chris335dF31 · 08-12-2018, 02:44 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by 6times7

I had a similar issue on my F31, a slight vibration at 80mph which was more more pronounced off throttle, and through seat/chassis rather than steering wheel.

The wheels had all been balanced when new tyres were fitted (19's with MPS4S) and I'd had the car aligned a couple of times after fitting B16 coilovers. I had a BMW indy look at it who felt UJ's were worn and could do with replacing, which wasn't looking like a cheap operation...

Just on the off chance, I took it in for a Hunter Road Force balance which completely sorted it for £50...

Thanks. Has to be worth a go.

Chris335dF31 · 08-19-2018, 02:52 AM

The car is fixed.

Hunter Road Force Elite balance did the trick. Every wheel analysed, tyre removed, re-oriented to optimum position relative to the rim, re-analysed and minimum balance weights positioned as required anywhere from inner rim to outer rim.

Took 1.5hrs. Total bill £144 - worth every penny. 9 months I've been chasing this problem and its now such a relief to be able to simply drive the car without analysing it. My confidence in the safety and longevity of the car has been restored.

Thank you to 6times7 and the others who contributed on this thread. Got to love this forum. Very happy.

speedski · 08-19-2018, 03:28 AM

Glad to hear you sorted it and fair play to 6times7 for the suggestion!

08-09-2018, 08:26 AM	#1
Chris335dF31 Private First Class 81 Rep 159 Posts Drives: 335d F31 Join Date: Nov 2017 Location: Hampshire iTrader: (0)	Vibration when Coasting on Motorway Been chasing a vibration issue on the car for a while now and recently noticed that it only occurs when easing off the accelerator and coasting. Accelerate, put the engine back under load and everything is smooth again. Most noticeable at motorway speed and the vibration is through the seat rather than the steering wheel. Having already swapped out all 4 wheels, 4 new balanced tyres and a Hunter 4 wheel alignment I am now thinking drivetrain. Another visit to the dealer is imminent but any help in pointing them towards a diagnosis appreciated. Thanks. __________________ _________________________________________ M135i F40 2020 - Misano Blue l Tech Pack 1&2 l Comfort Pack 1&2 l Adaptive Suspension Previous: 335d F31 MSport 2017 - Sapphire Black
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08-09-2018, 10:35 AM	#2
ROCKETRON 320D M-sport le-mans blue 12 Rep 152 Posts Drives: E90 320D M-Sport le-mans blue Join Date: Aug 2006 Location: N.W London UK iTrader: (0)	Sounds like prop shaft balance or u/j starting to go __________________ ROCKETRON MAZDA CX5 2.2D 175 AUTO AWD SPORT NAV. E90 320D M-Sport Lemans blue/beige leather/wood/auto/lumbar support/folding mirrors/through load/bluetooth/pro satnav,i-drive/voice control. NOW SOLD
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08-11-2018, 01:28 AM	#3
MarkG_M5Comp Supreme Being 1804 Rep 5,425 Posts Drives: M5 Comp Join Date: Jul 2013 Location: Hampshire, UK iTrader: (0)	Funnily enough I have a Qashqai rental car on holiday right now which does the same. To me if feels like the auto gearbox clutches juddering under engine braking. Try knocking it into neutral - if it stops the problem is drivetrain related, if not its wheels/balancing or bearings etc. __________________ Current: F90 M5 Competition Gone: F80 M3 Competition Pack / M135i / F15 X5 M50d / Saab 9-5 Aero HOT / F30 335d xDrive M Sport / E92 LCI 320d M Sport / E46 320d M Sport Touring / E46 318i Touring
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08-11-2018, 01:52 AM	#4
GEP77 Major 409 Rep 1,162 Posts Drives: Tesla Model 3 Long Range. Join Date: Nov 2013 Location: South East London iTrader: (1)	Are you actually coasting in Eco Pro or have you just lifted off? Are there any unusual noises at the same time?
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08-11-2018, 03:52 AM	#8
ROCKETRON 320D M-sport le-mans blue 12 Rep 152 Posts Drives: E90 320D M-Sport le-mans blue Join Date: Aug 2006 Location: N.W London UK iTrader: (0)	If it’s propshaft balance then it could still do it in neutral as the propshaft will still be turning, only difference being it is rotated by the rear wheels instead of the engine. __________________ ROCKETRON MAZDA CX5 2.2D 175 AUTO AWD SPORT NAV. E90 320D M-Sport Lemans blue/beige leather/wood/auto/lumbar support/folding mirrors/through load/bluetooth/pro satnav,i-drive/voice control. NOW SOLD
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08-11-2018, 04:19 AM	#10
Sasquartch Major 606 Rep 1,454 Posts Drives: 520i G30 Join Date: Aug 2016 Location: Herts iTrader: (0)	At 115k there's quite a lot of potential for anything rubber.to be worn out. Guibo is a good call However it needs to be up on a ramp and everything closely inspected, do you have any friendly MOT stations nearby as that will be cheaper than getting a main dealer to investigate Are there any clunks either from the suspension or when taking up the drive ?
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08-12-2018, 04:01 AM	#12
Chris335dF31 Private First Class 81 Rep 159 Posts Drives: 335d F31 Join Date: Nov 2017 Location: Hampshire iTrader: (0)	Going to try neutral today but wondering if I can damage the gearbox if I then re-engage drive, due to the relative difference in rpm of the driveshaft and engine/gearbox? Would I be better trying on an off slip where I can bring the car to a stop before re-engaging drive? __________________ _________________________________________ M135i F40 2020 - Misano Blue l Tech Pack 1&2 l Comfort Pack 1&2 l Adaptive Suspension Previous: 335d F31 MSport 2017 - Sapphire Black
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08-12-2018, 05:37 AM	#13
Jeff123 Jeff 318 Rep 1,451 Posts Drives: 330d M Sport x-drive F30 Join Date: Jan 2010 Location: Yorkshire iTrader: (0)	I have done this many times, just messing about to relieve the boredom. Knock it into neutral and it coasts, then just stick it back in drive again.
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08-12-2018, 09:17 AM	#16
MarkG_M5Comp Supreme Being 1804 Rep 5,425 Posts Drives: M5 Comp Join Date: Jul 2013 Location: Hampshire, UK iTrader: (0)	Do you have a local garage that does on-car wheel balancing? You need to rule out anything going on at the hub /wheel which I would think is far more likely that shafts (although not of course impossible). Recap - does the vibration come through the car/steering wheel/central tunnel??? Very odd. The only thing I had which was similar was the suspected faulty transfer box on my X5 bit yours is sDrive right? __________________ Current: F90 M5 Competition Gone: F80 M3 Competition Pack / M135i / F15 X5 M50d / Saab 9-5 Aero HOT / F30 335d xDrive M Sport / E92 LCI 320d M Sport / E46 320d M Sport Touring / E46 318i Touring
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08-12-2018, 02:41 PM	#19
6times7 Second Lieutenant 137 Rep 257 Posts Drives: F31 330d Join Date: Aug 2016 Location: UK iTrader: (0)	I had a similar issue on my F31, a slight vibration at 80mph which was more pronounced off throttle, and through seat/chassis rather than steering wheel. The wheels had all been balanced when new tyres were fitted (19's with MPS4S) and I'd had the car aligned a couple of times after fitting B16 coilovers. I had a BMW indy look at it who felt UJ's were worn and could do with replacing, which wasn't looking like a cheap operation... Just on the off chance, I took it in for a Hunter Road Force balance which completely sorted it for £50...
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08-19-2018, 02:52 AM	#21
Chris335dF31 Private First Class 81 Rep 159 Posts Drives: 335d F31 Join Date: Nov 2017 Location: Hampshire iTrader: (0)	The car is fixed. Hunter Road Force Elite balance did the trick. Every wheel analysed, tyre removed, re-oriented to optimum position relative to the rim, re-analysed and minimum balance weights positioned as required anywhere from inner rim to outer rim. Took 1.5hrs. Total bill £144 - worth every penny. 9 months I've been chasing this problem and its now such a relief to be able to simply drive the car without analysing it. My confidence in the safety and longevity of the car has been restored. Thank you to 6times7 and the others who contributed on this thread. Got to love this forum. Very happy. __________________ _________________________________________ M135i F40 2020 - Misano Blue l Tech Pack 1&2 l Comfort Pack 1&2 l Adaptive Suspension Previous: 335d F31 MSport 2017 - Sapphire Black
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08-19-2018, 03:28 AM	#22
speedski Major 547 Rep 1,066 Posts Drives: Former F40/F36/E81/E85 Owner Join Date: Jan 2018 Location: United Kingdom iTrader: (0)	Glad to hear you sorted it and fair play to 6times7 for the suggestion!
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