Why does a BMW make a clunking noise when turning the steering wheel in place?

[CoreyRose]

BMW making a clunking noise when turning the steering wheel in place could be due to the following reasons: 1. Noise from the shock absorber top mount bearing: If the clunking noise occurs when gently shaking the steering wheel in place, it is likely caused by insufficient lubrication in the shock absorber's top mount bearing. Applying some grease to the top mount bearing may solve the issue. If the noise persists after greasing, replacement is necessary. 2. Noise from the stabilizer bar: If the noise is not coming from the shock absorber, check if the stabilizer bar bushings are loose or damaged. Loose or damaged stabilizer bar bushings can cause noise not only when turning the steering wheel but also when driving on uneven roads. Loose bushings can be fixed by adding shims, but damaged ones must be replaced.

[MacMalia]

I've been running an auto repair shop for over a decade, and that clunking sound when turning BMWs on the spot is extremely common. Most cases involve worn or loose tie rod ends where the grease has dried up, causing direct metal-to-metal friction. Another culprit is aged or cracked strut mounts that squeak when the steering wheel turns. For vehicles with power steering, you need to check if the fluid level is adequate - a faulty pump could also cause noises. Worn control arm bushings are more troublesome, not only creating noises but affecting handling too. I remember fixing a 5 Series last time where the owner ignored it for six months, resulting in complete steering gear seal failure and oil leakage. Such abnormal sounds should be inspected early - the most straightforward method is removing wheels to check which bushings are cracked. Don't wait until the steering completely seizes up before getting it repaired.

[Gomez]

That day when moving the car in the garage, the steering wheel suddenly started vibrating with a clunking sound. The car wash attendant immediately said it's a common BMW issue, most likely the thrust bearing is gone. After inspection, sure enough, the ball bearings on top of the shock absorber were completely worn out, making a cracking noise when turning the wheel. My husband drove it to the 4S shop, where the technician even suspected the half-shaft, but lifting the car and spinning the wheels showed no issue. The repair bill came to over 2,000 including labor and parts. It was painful to pay, but a friend's old X3 didn't fix this issue and later the steering gear shook apart on bumpy roads. Actually, the rubber gets harder in winter making it noisier, while it's quieter in summer.

[LeAngela]

The thrust bearing issue is a given. BMW's bearings in this location are too small, and the rubber seals are poor. Over time, sand gets in and ruins them. Worn tie rod ends are also common—when the ball joint play gets too big, it starts clunking. Worse yet are the control arm bushings aging and cracking, which not only causes noise but also eats up the tires. Lift the car at a repair shop and shake the wheels—looseness usually points to these three spots. I went straight for reinforced bearings with upgraded, thicker rubber seals. The OEM parts barely last three years.