BMW E46 Driveshaft Rumble and Centre Bearing Replacement
E46 driveshaft rumbles or vibrates: which parts wear first?
The driveshaft centre bearing and the flex disc (a flexible joint containing rubber) usually fail first. The metal sleeves of the rubber mount can be detached from the rubber even if the mount looks intact. Twist the universal joints by hand: stiffness or play means they need refurbishing.
Where else can driveshaft-like vibration come from?
The joints of front-wheel-drive cars can cause the same symptom, and dried-out grease in the drive joints makes it vibrate at a certain speed. Also check the engine and gearbox mounts and the rubber pad that the exhaust system may touch. The cause varies from car to car.
What should be noted when removing the driveshaft and replacing the centre bearing?
Mark the position of the driveshaft at the drive flange and reassemble it in the same position, because the parts are balanced. The centre bearing must be aligned with the gearbox and the rear end so the driveshaft does not bend. Opinions differ on preload, so follow the model's service instructions.