Hi all,

I've got an R53 JCW w/ 88,000 miles and shakes (vertical motion) badly when going uphill from 45 mph and up. Does not shake noticably when going downhill. Will shake on a level surface if I stomp on the gas at these speeds. Seems to get worse when RPM's get higher--gets very bad at 3,500+ RPM's. I've done my research and have investigated this for a couple weeks and have already done the following:

- Clutch is not slipping nor making noises. Clutch pedal does not shake.
- Replaced front control arm bushings (which needed to be replaced anyways)
- Replaced spark plugs
- Replaced fuel filter
- Replaced air filter
- Inspected ignition coil terminals for corrosion. No rust to be found.
- Inspected spark plug wires and are in good condition.
- Front shocks should be replaced--a little "boat-like."
- No clicking sounds when turning so it's not the CV Joints.

At this point, I'm at a loss and this is a last attempt of self-diagnosis before going to the dealer. Any ideas?

Thanks in advance!

 

I struggled with these vibrations for over a year. It was time for a new clutch at 106k miles this week. I replaced the clutch with a Valeo single-mass flywheel kit from Waymotorworks.com and the vibrations have gone away completely.

Advice for anybody with vibrations like I posted previously: don't underestimate how much a clutch has impact on a vehicle. I thought I knew what slipping of the clutch was, and turns out I was wrong. [I did replace quite a few parts trying to solve the problem, which was overkill, but they needed to be replaced with the kind of mileage I have anyhow]

Send me a private message if any of you have any questions--or post a response on this thread.

 

Since there is no like button on this site, let me just say thank you! I have not had this problem (yet) but like to read a little bit of other's experiences for the future.

 

One of my biggest pet peeves is having an issue with my car, going online to read about others having the same issues, and then not finding a solution despite an entire thread about about the issues. I just wanted to tie ends on this thread and state what the solution ended up being.

 

Check your engine & tranny mounts.