E36 328i Sport. Is the ride supposed to be this harsh?

[Dimsum]

Hi guys and gals..

I am new to the forum.... So please be gentle!!!

I have been a BMW fan since for ever and currently drive a 98'Cosmos Black 328I Sport Auto.

I have noticed that the ride is pretty harsh and is only really smooth when driving on nice smooth tarmac.. Its not teeth rattling but, it certainly transmits those bumps into the cabin!

Its running on standard 17inch sport BBS Split rims, and has no suspension mods.

I was just wondering if this is normal? I intend to replace the bushes soon. Will this make that much of a difference?

There is also an occasional, but annoying squeek coming from the steering wheel/column area.. Any ideas?

Any help or advice would be appreciated...

Dimsum...

P.s I love everything else about the car!!

[deadslow]

I,ve got the squeak as well - have yet to investigate!

[Dimsum]

A friend of mine drives a 95 325tds saloon and has the same complaint.. Being rather handy with a spanner, he set about taking the whole steering column to pieces and replaced a few bits and bobs and it still does it!!

[BMW343]

Check you tires

If they are old and worn, then the ride is much worse

Had a similiar issue, tires were shot, replaced and problem has since gone away

[dimsum]

Current tyres are michelin pilot sports i think.. Plenty of tread on them, probably a good 3-4 mm.. Having some work done on Thursday which will include new bushes on the rear and 4 wheel laser tracking.. Will see how that effects things!!

[GTS turbo]

michelin tend to use a hard compound, great for wear as it lasts ages but it does make a harder tyre. check the tyre pressures aint too high also.