The last 2 days my 2005 BMW 325i started squealing on my commute to work. These days were 3 days apart and each followed a snow day in our area. The squealing started after I exited the highway about 20 miles from home and at a slower neighborhood speed. The squealing stops when I apply the brakes. No indicators come on the dash and it did not reoccur on my drive home those evenings. Any idea? First thought was brake pads.

Asked by credd Feb 27, 2015 at 04:42 PM about the 2005 BMW 3 Series 325i Sedan RWD

Question type: Maintenance & Repair

High pitched squeal that begins after 20 miles into my commute on 2 separate days that followed snow.  Occurred after exiting highway and slowing speed in neighborhood.  Stops when I apply brakes and did not reoccur on the drive home those evenings.  I have had it 1-1/2 yrs. and never changed brake pads.  Is that where I should start?

3 Answers

157,455

I would have someone take a good close look at the brake pads. They may be worn out.

155

If it's a constant squeal while the engine is running, then sounds to me like it could be a slightly loose belt. It makes noise when it's fully heated and stretched, but at a light load. You might be able to adjust the tensioner pulley and quiet it down. If it only happens while the car is rolling then it's likely a brake rotor.The brakes may just have something in them. You might try taking the wheels off and look for a rock or something; spraying brake cleaner while you spin the rotor backwards and it might do the trick.

1,210

Probably have to tighten your pulley or tention pulley belt thing. Thats what it is. If its not that then ur surpenteen belt throw some baby powder in it.

Your Answer:

3 Series

Looking for a Used 3 Series in your area?

CarGurus has 13,142 nationwide 3 Series listings starting at $516.

ZIP:

Own this car?

Share your experience with others.

2005 BMW 3 Series

Review another car

CarGurus Experts

  • #1
    Robert Charlson
    Reputation
    3,900
  • #2
    apbimmer98
    Reputation
    3,080
  • #3
    Abu Luca
    Reputation
    2,980
View All

Know more, shop wisely

Search

Related Models For Sale

Used BMW M3
55 Great Deals out of 1,100 listings starting at $12,000
Used BMW 5 Series
865 Great Deals out of 11,570 listings starting at $725
Used Mercedes-Benz C-Class
954 Great Deals out of 17,221 listings starting at $1,300
Used Lexus IS
283 Great Deals out of 5,380 listings starting at $1,000
Used Ford Mustang
877 Great Deals out of 23,190 listings starting at $1,150
Used Dodge Charger
765 Great Deals out of 29,607 listings starting at $2,500
Used BMW M5
37 Great Deals out of 557 listings starting at $13,965
Used BMW X3
854 Great Deals out of 16,160 listings starting at $650
Used Mercedes-Benz E-Class
715 Great Deals out of 10,207 listings starting at $1,150
Used BMW X5
856 Great Deals out of 14,577 listings starting at $1,555

Used Cars for Sale

2024 BMW 3 Series For Sale
49 Great Deals out of 1,890 listings starting at $39,596
2023 BMW 3 Series For Sale
91 Great Deals out of 920 listings starting at $29,205
2022 BMW 3 Series For Sale
49 Great Deals out of 432 listings starting at $23,688
2021 BMW 3 Series For Sale
213 Great Deals out of 2,096 listings starting at $20,453
2020 BMW 3 Series For Sale
103 Great Deals out of 1,013 listings starting at $14,395

Content submitted by Users is not endorsed by CarGurus, does not express the opinions of CarGurus, and should not be considered reviewed, screened, or approved by CarGurus. Please refer to CarGurus Terms of Use. Content will be removed if CarGurus becomes aware that it violates our policies.