The 'Famous' M Clunck (thud) - anyone else have it?

[aaronc]

Absolutely loving the E46 M3 I bought recently but something bothering me which after some research on forums from the USA it seems to be a common fault over there, basically when you engage 1st to 2nd gear you can hear a light 'thud'...doesnt always do it and doesnt seem to happen going from any other gear. From what I was reading it doesnt just relate to the 'M' series but other BMWs across the range..

Anyone one had this problem and if so manage to cure it?

[Ranger 6]

Yup, I get it occasionaly from mine(130i). Would also be interested in hearing a cure for it - could it be the infamous CDV?

[MattOz]

Sounds like it could be the front propshaft doughnut. Basically a tough rubber doughnut that sits at the rear end of the propshaft. It has 6 (IIRC) metal inserts that house bolts. With the twist action of many starts etc the metal inserts can wear the tough rubber and induce cluncking. If the noise is eminating from under the back seats then this is the culprit.

Very common problem, but easily fixed.

Matt