Clicking Noise when I brake or Accelerate
 

I drive a 3 series, E46 2002/03. When I am stuck in a stop/start traffic, i hear a clicking noise on the passenger side's front wheel when i brake. Similarly, when i accelerate, I get the same clicking noise front the front passenger side as well as the back passenger wheel.

The click is only once though. For example, if i was to brake, i will hear the click, and if i take my foot off the brake and then brake again (without touching the accelerator), i wont hear the click again.

Any ideas what this could be?

Check your brake pads and the caliper pins. Everything "floats" and if they are sticking, you'll hear a clicking sound. The fix is to loosen then up so they slide. If you pull off the wheels, and begin to remove the calipers and pads, you'll see how they are installed and you'll probably be able to feel the sticking and hear the clicking. gordo

Does the car pull at all at highway speeds when you just barely apply pressure to the brakes?

I'm not sure if I understand what you mean mate. The faster I go, the less fainter the clicking noise is obviously. The brakes seem to be working fine if I'm honest, the car doesn't feel heavy when i apply the brakes or anything, even at highway speeds. The click comes when pressing the brakes at halfway point.


Thanks mate, will try this at the weekend and get back to you if it does or doesn't work.

What marinekilz means is, when at highway speeds, if you touch lightly on the brakes, does it pull to one side or the other? If it pulls to the right, then the right side is likely grabbing earlier than the left and should be where you start.

well correct, I was thinking thrust rod bushings being worn causing the noise. but checking for a sticking caliper or something in the brake system is also a good direction to go like someone else suggested

Cheers for clearing that up. It doesnt seem to be pulling any side really. I was on the motorway/highway this morning doing about 80mph and didnt feel anything when i pressed the brake pedal.

It might be your fuel economy gauge, I have a similar noise. The faster you accelerate the faster the clicking? Watch the gauge when you change throttle.