[x3aniac]

Hello,

Couple months ago my X3 2.0D PREFL developed a strange humming sound driving at 45-60mph (didn't go above that). Sounds like the sound is coming from bearings, but I'm not sure as the car is driving on winter tires, it has 290k km. driven, also the gearbox and transfer case oil hasn't been changed in a while. The car also threw a drivetrain fault that went away. Maybe anyone has experienced something like this? I'll make sure to upload a video with the sound later.

[MSport_Jon]

If you are able to drive the X3 at the speed where it is the most audible, find a curve and add lateral load. If the sounds increase in amplitude then its most likely the wheel bearings.

Lift it and wiggle them. If the X3 was ever submerged there is big chance water compromised a bearing.

They are easy to change if you are willing.

[Opie55]

Originally Posted by MSport_Jon

If you are able to drive the X3 at the speed where it is the most audible, find a curve and add lateral load. If the sounds increase in amplitude then its most likely the wheel bearings.

Lift it and wiggle them. If the X3 was ever submerged there is big chance water compromised a bearing.

They are easy to change if you are willing.

OP does not say if the sound is front or rear. Front bearings are fairly easy, but rears are not.

[MSport_Jon]

Originally Posted by Opie55

OP does not say if the sound is front or rear. Front bearings are fairly easy, but rears are not.

The lateral load does work on all 4. The difference is that the fronts will scream more than the back ones but they all will produce amplitude during load.

They are easy to replace. Compared to an e46 or e90 drive, the X3 is a piece of cake. The rear just required for you to replace or move over the wheel hub flange. I replace all 4 last year and I say they are easy compared to other vehicles.

[x3aniac]

Originally Posted by MSport_Jon

If you are able to drive the X3 at the speed where it is the most audible, find a curve and add lateral load. If the sounds increase in amplitude then its most likely the wheel bearings.

Lift it and wiggle them. If the X3 was ever submerged there is big chance water compromised a bearing.

They are easy to change if you are willing.

https://vimeo.com/740135460
I'm adding the video of the sound. The car was driving at 40mph, no wind, good, straight road. I was sitting in the backseat, ans could very clearly hear the sound behind me on the left, much more than in the front. Also there's some brake disc ovality in the rear.

[MSport_Jon]

For some reason i can not reach that site.

[ClampThurst]

Yep, typical bearing failure sound.