Sounds like loose swaybar end links OR a loose strut tube collar nut. I've had both situations cause clunking noises. You can differentiate between the two... A loose swaybar link won't make any noise when both front wheels are moving with eachother - over a speedbump, for example. It will be loudest when one wheel (either side) hits a bump while the other wheel stays in position. A loose collar nut can make noise anytime.Originally Posted by BigKriss
Actually, the clunk I heard that my shop attributed to a loose collar nut never really went away until I replaced the strut inserts just recently. The side that was making the noise also had almost no oil in the strut tube (and from what I've learned, there's supposed to be a small amount in there to act as a thermal conductor and as a sort of viscous setting that keeps the shocks from moving around inside the tube).
You can replace the boot, if you like. See: http://www.bmpdesign.com/product-exec/product_id/683The ball joints of the upper thrust arms don't look good. I recently had the bushings replaced.
Can I replace the ball joint or do I have to replace the whole arm, in pic 1 - http://www.bimmer.info/forum/attachm...ntid=878&stc=1
I think it's unlikely either control arm ball joint is making the clunk. If the arms are installed correctly, they're under a good bit of pressure from the bushings. I can see them making noise on turning the wheels, but not over bumps. I could always be wrong. I wouldn't start here, though.you can see a crack in the rubber of the thrust arm ball joint - this is of concern for me and I think the clunking is maybe? coming from here and the front swaybar links.
Eh. Nothing to see here.- how the tie rod is sitting - not straight - pics 2 and 3
Yank on the bits down there and look for any significant movement in the ball joints. I bet it's the sway bar links - possibly even just a loose bolt on one.