BMW E36 Clutch Chatter

[@malutj]

Were you able to resolve this problem? I have the same issue on my 2012 335i. It has 70k miles on it and this has been going on since about 55k miles. It only happens when the car is warmed up and I’m taking off in first. And it’s far more pronounced when on an incline. I originally thought it was the clutch slipping or a contaminated flywheel/clutch surface, but I ended up putting stiffer transmission mounts in and now the clutch judder is completely gone, but the rattle that was being made is still there (sounds just like what you have going on here, but a lot louder). I’m guessing I need a new flywheel; is that something you tried?

[@MartyMitchell92660]

Hi Jason, it resolved itself over time. I had just had some major engine work done and I think they contaminated the clutch during that procedure. Maybe solvent got into that area. Sorry I couldn't provide a better solution that might help your situation. Maybe a bad spot on your flywheel?

[@malutj]

@@MartyMitchell92660 Thanks for the response, Marty! I might just have to suck it up and pay BMW the "diagnostic fee" so I can finally figure out what's wrong.

[@JohnLoubser]

@@malutj were you able to solve it?

[@malutj]

John Loubser Unfortunately, I’ve yet to fix it. I upgraded the clutch and flywheel together about 5 months ago, which did nothing. I’m pretty sure now that what’s causing the “chatter” I’m feeling at takeoff is actually just the engine stuttering due to a boost leak somewhere. Car is currently in the garage with intake manifold and valve cover removed. I’m replacing those gaskets (valve cover was leaking oil) as well as a number of o-rings along the intake path. Hopefully, when I get it all buttoned back up this weekend it’ll feel a lot better.

[@paxman809]

Broken flywheel

[@MartyMitchell92660]

Ken Johnson Broken? Could you elaborate?

[@paxman809]

Marty Mitchell E36s use a 2 piece dual mass flywheel with springs in it. They fail all the time on these cars.

[@MartyMitchell92660]

When they fail, what are the symptoms? Chattering from a stop? That's about the only problem I've noticed. Are there any tests for broken flywheel like accelerate and decelerate?

[@skatefreakskate]

Mines chattering loads it's either not lined up properly or it's worn or release bearing is knackered