[SteveP]

The most annoying thing is the rear seat armrest ( I have split folding rear seats) keeps popping out. This happens when driving with the sunroof and windows open. As soon as you go over about 60, the negative air pressure in the car forces the armrest down. Depending on how it's stowed, the ski sock will also unfurl into the car. Truly annoying. Anyone got a fix?

The second issue is the pronounced WHINE that can be heard coming from somewhere in the drivetrain. To hear it, close all windows, turn off stereo. It's noticeable in all gears, but mostly under light throttle in fourth or fifth gear. Anyone know what it is, and how to get it fixed?

I'm going in for an oil change tomorrow (my cost at 5600 miles), and will have the dealer listen for it, but if I can know what it is ahead, that'd be great!

 

[KKelly]

How about a tiny strip of velcro on the armrest. I am sure they would do it.

 

[SAB]

back armrest: yes, very annoying. it only pops out on me when i drive on the highway with the windows all wide open - i think it gets a push from the air pressure between the trunk and the cabin.

i was planning to look at this myself (one of these days) and either (a) put some small, inobtrusive velcro gig together or (b) tighten up the bolts substantially so it's a bit difficult to pull down.

shawn

 

[sam]

I hear the whine on a regular basis - and yes, it is annoying. If anyone found a solution, I'd love to hear it.

-Sam

 

[SteveP]

I asked the dealer to check out the whine. The mechanic did take it for a test drive, and heard the sound, but couldn't identify it. He checked everything out, and couldn't find any obvious cause (misaligned driveshaft, etc...). They called their BMW helpline, and they suggested it *might* be normal. I disagree. It never made the sound (at least not so I could hear it) until a couple of weeks ago. It's most noticeable at cruising speeds under light throttle (let off the throttle to coast, and then just press lightly). Now that it's been happening, it is totally distracting.

 

[daniel]

Steve,

I also have this sound. In previous cars, the same exact symptoms were caused by the ring & pinion in the differential not being properly aligned... Dan