[Chill59]

I'm getting an intermittent buzz at certain resonant frequencies, mainly on newly gritted, slightly course, residential roads (around 30 MPH).
I'm planning on fitting non-runflat tyres in the near future.
Do you think this might cure the steering column buzz given that regular tyres give a slightly softer ride?

[HighlandPete]

Originally Posted by Chill59

I'm getting an intermittent buzz at certain resonant frequencies, mainly on newly gritted, slightly course, residential roads (around 30 MPH).
I'm planning on fitting non-runflat tyres in the near future.
Do you think this might cure the steering column buzz given that regular tyres give a slightly softer ride?

That's a difficult one to guess at, depends on the cause. Only one way to find out.

[Sasquartch]

Definitely possible. My 328i on 18" runflats does sometimes have a bit of dashboard vibration on rough surfaces

[Chill59]

I find it hard to comprehend why BMW are prepared to settle for added road noise and ride harshness for the sake of fitting runflats rather than supply a jack and spacesaver. Unbelievable!

[HighlandPete]

Originally Posted by Chill59

I find it hard to comprehend why BMW are prepared to settle for added road noise and ride harshness for the sake of fitting runflats rather than supply a jack and spacesaver. Unbelievable!

If that those were the only reasons for fitting RFTs, I'd agree. Back in the early days it was clear more was involved. According to BMW, run-flats were a highly requested feature by users, for safety reasons. Plus benefits for vehicle design, use of space, weight reductions, emissions and more.

BTW, road noise and harshness is only partly due to run-flats. Even some non run-flats will appear just as noisy and virtually as harsh.

[Chill59]

I hear what you're saying but noise/refinement should surely be more important in a luxury saloon?
The amount of road noise was the very first thing that struck me when I first drove my car.

[HighlandPete]

Originally Posted by Chill59

I hear what you're saying but noise/refinement should surely be more important in a luxury saloon?
The amount of road noise was the very first thing that struck me when I first drove my car.

You'll be opening up a can of worms calling a 3 or 4-series a luxury car.

Noise intrusion in the F3x models is well documented. Some models do seem to be more noisy than others, and it isn't simply down to tyre choice. I remember my first drive in a 328i and tyre noise was high, very surface dependant, worse than my E91. Even an F30 with higher profile, non run-flat tyres, was just as noisy to my ears.

Slightly sideways, was talking with the manager at my local National Tyres, and we got to discussing tyre noise and what tyres (using the tyre labelling drive by noise data), would be best in my 5-series. He didn't think (based on his experience), I'd notice much difference in a 5-series, due to the good insulation from road noise. 3 & 4-series is a different issue, we know that through both airborne and structure-borne pathways, we get more noise into the cabins than with a 5-series. Clearly BMW target a different market with the 3 & 4-series. There is less isolation from road noise.

[lear45xr]

My first 4 series had a buzz around the steering column surrounds over roughish roads stopped when I put light finger pressure on them. My current 4 series which was brand new made some noise.

[James-335dx]

As above I've also often had a buzzing/vibrating noise which I finally found out to be the plastic trim behind the steering wheel. Stops when I give it a bash. Might try and tighten the screws or put a bit of foam or something in there to stop it. I've also switched to NRF and it still does it :

[Chill59]

Thanks for all your observations guys ...much appreciated

...and sorry for calling 3/4 series a luxury saloon. I did, of course, mean sports saloon/coupe.

[RobUK]

My understanding was always that BMW fitted RFTs because they didn't want the weight of a spare plus jack etc., upsetting the near 50/50 weight distribution? (Also why the battery is in the rear). That could of course be complete BS

[Wills2]

Originally Posted by Chill59

I hear what you're saying but noise/refinement should surely be more important in a luxury saloon?

It is but you've got a 4 series....which is a sporty (ish) 2 door, if you think your car is harsh and noisy don't try an M3/4 they come with non RFT but make a right racket.

I doubt it's your tyres.

[liam_]

Originally Posted by James-335dx

As above I've also often had a buzzing/vibrating noise which I finally found out to be the plastic trim behind the steering wheel. Stops when I give it a bash. Might try and tighten the screws or put a bit of foam or something in there to stop it. I've also switched to NRF and it still does it :

I have the exact same issue, good old bashing makes it go away for about 5 mins.

Keep us updated if you manage to fix it!

[James-335dx]

Originally Posted by liam_

I have the exact same issue, good old bashing makes it go away for about 5 mins.

Keep us updated if you manage to fix it!

Ha, ha, yeah 5 mins or so then it's back again. I will have a go and see if I can get it to stop and let you know how I get on.