530i Sport Rattle

[RichardP]

I have recently bought a 530i Sport (51 reg, 64k miles). Everything seems fine apart from an annoying rattle when going over bumps. It seems to be coming from the N/S/R and I've checked things like a loose spare wheel or trim etc.

Before I have a look underneath it, does anybody have any tips as to typical things to look for? (I was wondering whether M-sport suspension had any joints/bushes that are commonly known to cause rattles).

Thanks

Richard

[xm5er]

Check the handbrake drum components. I had the problem on an E36 and now have the same rattle on my E46. In to be serviced on Thursday, if it is anything other than that I will let you know.

[jj.]

My E39, 530 Sport developed, what I can only describe as a trim rattle, also from the NSR. At first I thought it was the parcel shelf, then I thought it was something in the rear door, then under the rear seat, rear carpet, etc… I sat in the back whilst the G/F drove, and still couldn’t hear where it was coming from, properly….

I haven’t heard it now for the past 6 months, so no-idea what it was, but mine was defo trim and not mechanical.

jj (sod’s law the rattle will come back tomorrow now..!)

[fixedwheelnut]

Difficult to say but hear are a few common ones;
rear lower ball joints, check movement in the wheel holding it at 12 and 6 o'clock

rear track control arm as above but hold wheel at 3 and 9 o'clock.

stones caught in the back plates.

handbrake cable grommet split allowing metal to metal contact

rear anti roll bar links, and or brackets split

hope that helps.

[RichardP]

Thanks for the suggestions. I think I found the cause last night. The thin heatshield between the silencer and the N/S/R plastic wheel arch liner was touching the seam of the silencer. I've driven 80 miles this morning and didn't get a rattle, so fingers crossed that's cured it.

Richard