Wierd noises near rear left wheel.

[1989 524TD]

Hello everybody. Does anyone have a theory about this problem:

I have a 1989 524TD. Exellent car (my first), I love it to death. I have noticed a wierd groaning sound from the rear left wheel area while driving, - especially turning - at very low speeds. Also in reverse. The sound is not loud and alarming, that is it doesn't sound like the wheels are about to fall off or anything, but that stupid noise is very annoying.

It sort of sounds like the tyres are rubbing against something, which they aren't.

It does not help to pull the hand brake.

Does this sound familiar to anyone ???????????????

[TimGinCentralNJ]

I haven't encountered this particular problem, but have a couple of ideas on how I'd approach it.

Jack up the rear of your car, place it on jack stands with the front wheels blocked, then do the following:
-Check to make sure there's no inner fender/plastic making contact with the wheel.
-Verify you have fluid in your differential.
-Check all axle boots for tears and/or fluid loss.
-With the emergency brake disengaged, try to spin your rear wheels and see if the sound occurs in either wheel, and that they spin somewhat freely.

As a person with entry-level mechanical abilities, the most "complex" thing I can think of (though I can't see it making the sound you've described) might be a wheel bearing.

Hope this helps.
Rgds,
Tim G
'91 535iM
119k


Hello everybody. Does anyone have a theory about this problem:

I have a 1989 524TD. Exellent car (my first), I love it to death. I have noticed a wierd groaning sound from the rear left wheel area while driving, - especially turning - at very low speeds. Also in reverse. The sound is not loud and alarming, that is it doesn't sound like the wheels are about to fall off or anything, but that stupid noise is very annoying.

It sort of sounds like the tyres are rubbing against something, which they aren't.

It does not help to pull the hand brake.

Does this sound familiar to anyone ???????????????