Big knock when changing gears

[nkedama]

Hi BMWFamily

I bought a e46 320i 2.2 close to two months ago and have had the "time of my life" up until 3 days ago.

It first started with a funny sound coming from the exhaust (i think) when i accelerate or when i slow down. I assumed there is a hole in it as it sounds like it.

Then yesterday when i was changing from 1st to 2nd gear, I heard a loud knock. it sounds as if its coming from the back somewhere, and today it happened with all the gears. I'm going to have it checked out later today but was wondering if anyone has had this problem or might know what this is?

Please help

 

[abmi0000]

Are you using the clutch before changing?

Welcome btw! :=):

 

[nkedama]

Are you using the clutch before changing?

Welcome btw! :=):

Thank you! :-D

Yes, I am using the clutch when changing

 

[moranor@axis]

irs probably the rear diff bush... may as well replace all 3 diff bushes while the diff is out

you will be able to clearly see rips in the rear bush if you look under the car... the two front ones cant really be inspected with the diff in place...

 

[nkedama]

Thank you.

Do you think it will be fine to drive it like this from Bryanston to Weltevreden park to have it looked at? Or will i damage it even further?

 

[herr bmw]

welcome

how far is that,roughly?

should be fine if you take it easy

 

[moranor@axis]

rather confirm its the diff bush before you take it in... if its the diff bush it will be fine to drive just be smooth with your changes and try not put alot of load on the diff while driving...

you should be able to inspect the rear diff bush without even jacking it just slide your head under the back of the car and have a look

you should find something like this if its ripped:

if its not the diff bush it might not be a good idea to drive it far...

 

[nkedama]

Thanks guys. I couldn't take quality pics but i'll take a chance and drive the distance about (7kms) to have it looked at. I'll update you guys. :ty:

 

[moranor@axis]

so you found diff bush ripped?

 

[ChrisBrand]

This happened to me as well. Best case scenario - rear diff bush. Worst case as what happened with me - rear subframe ripped out