Service Repair

Grinding/Cracking Noise Not Good for BMW

Sept. 10, 2021

This bulletin applies to BMW rear axles.

This bulletin applies to BMW rear axles. A metallic grinding or cracking noise from the rear of the vehicle may be heard when placing the transmission in gear. A “Drive Disturbed” message may be displayed.

The cause: The inner and/or outer universal joint on the right and/or left rear output shaft has failed.

About the Author

Mike Mavrigian | Motor Age Editor

Mike Mavrigian has written thousands of automotive technical magazine articles involving a variety of specialties, from engine building to wheel alignment, and has authored more than a dozen books that crisscross the automotive spectrum. Mike operates Birchwood Automotive, an Ohio shop that builds custom engines and performs vintage vehicle restorations. The shop also features a professional photo studio to document projects and to create images for articles and books.

About the Author

Information courtesy of Mitchell 1

Information for Technical Service Bulletins comes from ProDemand, Mitchell 1's auto repair information software for domestic and import vehicles. Headquartered in San Diego, Mitchell 1 has provided quality repair information solutions to the automotive industry since 1918.