Thumping sound from rear of car

[ken5285]

Fellow e36 M3 owners,

I have a 98 M3 sedan that is experiencing some thumping sounds from the rear of the car. I am guessing that the rear shock mounts are the cause for this. The sound is continuous as my car travels over small bumps on the road or uneven surface. Has anyone experienced something like that? I just need some advice to diagnose the problem and get it repaired.

Thanks.

[langley]

Yes, your shock mounts are bad.

[DD/M]

Get them looked at asap. They can tear the metal away from the towers.

[thejlevie]

It could be bad shock mounts, or any of the other parts of the rear axle & suspension. Have the car inspected by an experienced BMW tech to know what needs to be replaced.

[LuxoM3]

+500

It's MOST likely your rear shock mounts. Pretty cheap fix. About $50 in parts and 30 min of your time.

IF you want to inspect yourself... pull the trunk carpeting and you will see the shock tops. 10 min. of time to do that.

[ken5285]

How do you tell that it is worn out and needs replacement? Or does the sound I am hearing an indicator that it needs to be replaced.

[langley]

The thump usually is the indicator.

[markom]

I had the same problem, turned out my jack wasn't positioned well. I don't remember if it was a thumping noise though.