FAULTBASE
NEWSASKCars
© 2025 FAULTBASE
All rights reserved.
v2.0.0 • Production
ContactPrivacyImpressum
Home/Cars/BMW/3 Series/E90/E91 (2005-2012)/why is my BMW 3 Series E90/E91 (2005-2012) making a whining noise when driving?

why is my BMW 3 Series E90/E91 (2005-2012) making a whining noise when driving?

BMW 3 Series E90/E91 (2005-2012)

Severity: mediumDifficulty: medium2-4 hours
3 min read
519 words

Problem Statement

## Problem Statement The BMW 3 Series E90/E91 (2005-2012) is exhibiting a whining noise while driving, which may indicate issues with the drivetrain or accessory components.

Repair Time
2-4 hours

Safety Warnings

  • ⚠Safety Warnings:**
  • ⚠Disconnect the battery before working on electrical systems.
  • ⚠Allow the engine to cool before opening any components related to the cooling system.

Symptoms

  • •Whining noise that increases with vehicle speed
  • •Noise present when accelerating and decelerating
  • •Possible vibrations felt through the steering wheel or chassis
  • •Engine performance may feel compromised
  • •Unusual wear on tires or increased road noise

Diagnostic Steps

  1. 1Inspect the serpentine belt for wear or damage.
  2. 2Check the power steering fluid level and inspect for leaks.
  3. 3Listen closely to the engine bay for the source of the noise while the engine is running.
  4. 4Examine the transmission fluid level and condition.
  5. 5Inspect wheel bearings for play or wear.
  6. 6Test drive the vehicle to correlate noise with engine RPM and speed.

Solution

Solution

1. Preparation

  • Tools Required: Socket set, screwdrivers, fluid catch pan, safety gloves.
  • Ensure the vehicle is parked on a level surface and engage the parking brake.

2. Inspect and Replace Serpentine Belt

  • Sub-steps:
    1. Remove the engine cover if applicable.
    2. Loosen the tensioner pulley using a wrench to relieve tension on the serpentine belt.
    3. Carefully remove the serpentine belt from the pulleys.
    4. Inspect the belt for cracks, fraying, or glazing.
    5. If damaged, replace with a new belt (OEM recommended).
  • Safety Warning: Ensure the engine is off and cool before starting.

3. Check Power Steering System

  • Sub-steps:
    1. Locate the power steering reservoir and check the fluid level.
    2. If low, add the recommended power steering fluid.
    3. Inspect hoses and connections for leaks or damage.
    4. If noise persists, consider replacing the power steering pump.
  • Tools Required: Fluid catch pan, funnel.

4. Transmission Fluid Inspection

  • Sub-steps:
    1. Check the transmission fluid level with the dipstick (if applicable).
    2. Inspect the fluid for discoloration or burnt smell.
    3. If the fluid is low or dirty, perform a transmission fluid change.
  • Tools Required: Transmission fluid, funnel.

5. Examine Wheel Bearings

  • Sub-steps:
    1. Lift the vehicle securely with jack stands.
    2. Spin each wheel by hand to listen for noise or roughness.
    3. If play is detected, replace the affected wheel bearing.
  • Tools Required: Jack stands, socket set.

Verification

After completing the repair, verify that the issue has been resolved:

  • Test the affected component to ensure it functions correctly
  • Check for any error codes or warning lights
  • Monitor the vehicle for a few days to ensure the issue does not recur

Prevention Tips

To prevent this issue from occurring again:

  • •Follow the manufacturer's recommended maintenance schedule
  • •Address warning signs early before they develop into major issues
  • •Use quality parts and fluids recommended for your vehicle
  • •Keep detailed records of all repairs and maintenance

Tools & Equipment Required

  • Socket set
  • Screwdrivers
  • Fluid catch pan
  • Safety gloves

Parts Required

  • Serpentine belt (if worn)
  • Power steering fluid
  • Transmission fluid (if needed)
  • Wheel bearing (if necessary)

Additional Information

Repair Time

2-4 hours

Difficulty

medium

Severity

medium

Tools

4 items

Parts

4 items

Related Faults

Discover similar issues

  1. why does my BMW 3 Series E90/E91 (2005-2012) shake when I brake

    ## Problem Statement The BMW 3 Series E90/E91 (2005-2012) is experiencing vibrations or shaking in the steering wheel or chassis when braking, indicat...

    Symptoms
    • •Noticeable shaking or vibration in the steering wheel during braking
    • •Pulsating brake pedal feel
    • +{count} more
  2. how to reset the check engine light on my BMW 3 Series E90/E91 (2005-2012)

    ## Problem Statement The check engine light on a BMW 3 Series E90/E91 (2005-2012) needs to be reset after addressing the underlying issue.

    Symptoms
    • •Check engine light illuminated
    • •Engine performance issues (if any unresolved problems remain)
    • +{count} more
  3. how to fix the steering wheel vibration in my BMW 3 Series E90/E91 (2005-2012)

    ## Problem Statement The steering wheel in your BMW 3 Series E90/E91 (2005-2012) vibrates, particularly at certain speeds or during braking, indicatin...

    Symptoms
    • •Steering wheel vibrates at specific speeds (usually between 50-70 mph)
    • •Vibration increases when braking
    • +{count} more
  4. my BMW 3 Series E90/E91 (2005-2012) heater only blows cold air what could be wrong

    ## Problem Statement The heater in a BMW 3 Series E90/E91 (2005-2012) is only blowing cold air, indicating a possible issue with the heating system.

    Symptoms
    • •Heater blows only cold air
    • •Fluctuating cabin temperature
    • +{count} more
  5. why does my BMW 3 Series E90/E91 (2005-2012) have a water leak in the trunk

    ## Problem Statement The BMW 3 Series E90/E91 (2005-2012) is experiencing a water leak in the trunk area, which can lead to water accumulation and pot...

    Symptoms
    • •Water pooling in the trunk area
    • •Damp or wet carpet in the trunk
    • +{count} more
  6. how to fix the defroster not working in my BMW 3 Series E90/E91?

    ## Problem Statement The defroster system in a BMW 3 Series E90/E91 is not functioning correctly, leading to impaired visibility due to fogged or froz...

    Symptoms
    • •Front and rear defroster not producing heat
    • •Fogged or iced windows that do not clear
    • +{count} more

Share this solution

Comments

Sign in to share your thoughts

Sign In

No comments yet

Be the first to share your thoughts

Back to Generation