33 90... Rear axle troubleshooting

2013 Mini Cooper Countryman, Standard TransSECTION 33 90... Rear axle troubleshooting
WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2010 BMW 135i, 2009 BMW 135i, and 2008 BMW 135i. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Observe troubleshooting for shock absorbers  .

REAR AXLE TROUBLESHOOTING CHART

Fault Cause Remedy
Grinding noise (only when cornering) Refer to TROUBLESHOOTING BRAKE SYSTEM 
Wheel bearings faulty Replace WHEEL BEARINGS
Vibration (90 - 160 km/h) Wheel imbalance Balance wheels  . See 36 10 508 STATIONARY WHEEL BALANCING .
Radial/lateral rim runout Check rims  , replace if necessary
Radial tyre runout Match or replace tyres 
Imbalance in output shaft Replace output shaft  
Drumming Rubber mount on rear axle differential suspension defective Replace rubber mount 
Rubber mount of rear axle carrier faulty Replace rubber mount 
Rattling noise Refer to TROUBLESHOOTING FOR SHOCK ABSORBERS .
Stabilizer link loose or defective Check screw connection, replace stabilizer link if necessary
Rubber mount of rear axle carrier loose or faulty Check seat, replace rubber mount  if necessary
Poor straight-running stability (steering wheel inclination) Refer to BMW diagnosis system/Troubleshooting tree wheel/chassis alignment
Unsteady taking of curves due to self-steering or poor rear end track stability
Excessive tyre wear
RENDER: 1.0x

NO RELATED

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When to See a Mechanic

Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:

  • You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
  • Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
  • The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
  • You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
  • You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.