Rear clunk when moving from a stop. Should I worry?
 

I've noticed a 'clunk' at the rear when I get moving after a stop. It doesn't always happen, and I'm wondering whether it's the new pads and rotors acting up, or if it's a suspension issue. The dealer has to put on the rear tires he promised me, so we'll take a look then. I've heard that loose sway bar bushings are often the culprit. If it's that, I'll get the dealer to tighten them up.

Anyone got any tips on what to look for?

Sub frame bushings are probably shot. Easy DIY if you have the bushing installation tool. If not either rent the tool or bring it in to someone that has the tool.

Hmm... is this something I ought to do right away? I could rent the tool but don't really have anywhere to lift the car except outside, which will really suck this time of year :P

If I had to get someone else to do it, is this one of those expensive bmw repairs?

Well it requires the special tool from either an Indy shop that has it, or the dealer. Or you could rent one and do it yourself.

It's not going to make your car fall apart if you don't do it now, just will be annoying sounding.

Gotcha. BTW, awesome handle!

If you're not first, you're last! ;)

Here's a video on removing the sub frame bushing.

BMW e53 Subframe Bushing R&R - YouTube

You can also remove them with a sawzall, and if you go with powerflex bushings you don't need the special tool to insert them.

Are there any CHEAP BMW repairs?

LOL, some of the DIY stuff is cheap. Bushings aren't expensive, so I may just have to give this one a shot if I can find someone whose garage I can commandeer for an afternoon. Will Def go w/ powerflex bushings if they give a rood ride vs OEM... hmm... who sells them in Canada?

Thanks, guys.

Hey Professor, wondering if the powerflex bushes are too stiff for the X5?? I have to do mine in the next few weeks too. let us know if you go powerflex and how they are !
Pelican parts, or FCP Euro or Bavauto probably carry them and ship to Canada, (even Toronto!! lol)
Thanx
Riemer

:popcorn:

Meyle HD bushings are solid rubber vs fluid filled oem bushings, they are about 160 for the set of 4.

If you sawzall out the old ones and install power flex, sure they are an easier install, but the bushings are like 400 bucks for the set. You can buy a set of Meyle HD and rent the tool to do the job for much cheaper. Which is the only reason I probably won't be doing the powerflex bushings, there is no justification for the added cost, considering the bushings are good for 10 years/80k miles or more.