Wheel bearing

[ekimv65]

I think I have a wheel bearing that has worn out...? When I turn corners the X feels like it slips (don't know if that makes any sense) or slides under cornering weight. Also since this started a couple days ago, when hitting bumps, I can hear a clunk if it were from the drivers side front tire. The ABS is acting funny, under acceleration the DSC kicks in which never happened before......

If you think it is a wheel bearing, are there any DIY tips anyone would be willing to share?

I know how and have done wheel bearings on Fords and GM products, but never on a BMW.

Thanks in advance for your thoughts and help.

[JCL]

A classic wheel bearing failure is a very rhythmic noise, that sounds like ruh-ruh-ruh-ruh, varying with vehicle speed. It often comes in around 30 mph or so, and isn't as obvious below a certain speed. It can be set off (start up) or be louder when cornering, due to thrust (side) loads.

Yours sounds much more like a suspension issue, something loose that changes wheel position (what you describe as 'sliding') and which clunks over bumps.

I would get underneath and thoroughly inspect all struts, bushings, etc, as well as the front wheels and front driveline components.

[ekimv65]

Thanks JCL for the response, the tire low symbol just came on and when looking at the vehicle, the drivers side is about 5/8" lower on a flat and level surface.... any ideas?

I am currently in a turtle shell support after having 4 vertebrae fused, I would have liked it being a wheel bearing, I can jack that to eye level and work from a sitting position. I will see if I can get on a creeper and give her a good looking over.

If you have any more ideas, I do appreciate the help.

[ekimv65]

Originally Posted by JCL

A classic wheel bearing failure is a very rhythmic noise, that sounds like ruh-ruh-ruh-ruh, varying with vehicle speed. It often comes in around 30 mph or so, and isn't as obvious below a certain speed. It can be set off (start up) or be louder when cornering, due to thrust (side) loads.

Yours sounds much more like a suspension issue, something loose that changes wheel position (what you describe as 'sliding') and which clunks over bumps.

I would get underneath and thoroughly inspect all struts, bushings, etc, as well as the front wheels and front driveline components.

Out of curiosity, Is that some type of jag in your avatar? I have a friend that runs one in the SVRA racing group, a 62 E-type 6 CYL.

[JCL]

Originally Posted by ekimv65

Out of curiosity, Is that some type of jag in your avatar? I have a friend that runs one in the SVRA racing group, a 62 E-type 6 CYL.

It's a 1954 Mercedes W196 Streamliner GP racer. Same era as the Jaguar D type, but a GP car instead of LeMans. Most importantly, in that photo it is being driven by Sir Stirling Moss. He won races with this car back in the 50s. I saw him drive it at the Goodwood Festival of Speed in the UK in 2004, and took that shot on the course. He was moving along very nicely. Incredible driver, I'm a big fan.