Wobble

Gents, I have a 99 523 and recently it has developed a bad shake through the steering wheel when braking from 50-60mph.What should be the very 1st thing to check, front wheel balance ?           ;

 

 

jetsetwilly2000 wrote: E39's are very sensitive to wheel balance but I think the most likely culprit is the thrust arm bushes (the thrust arm is number 4 here, and I think the bush is number 5).  When they go they cause a shimmy at 50-60mph, which is usually much worse under braking (as that's when the bush is loaded).Welcome to the forum!

Second that. Go somewhere with some space (car park) and turn you steering wheel almost full. Drive walking speed and dab the brakes to still stand. You may hear it knocking.
I would replace BOTH sides. Avoid cheap aftermarket parts if you can.

How old are you brake disks and pads?
Do you drive the car everyday?

Thanks for your replies,the pads are about 8 months old, discs I dont know how old and I do drive it everyday.

jetsetwilly2000 wrote: Check the bushes first.  The knock test is a good one, otherwise get under it and try to move the arm.

It was very hard to test my arms whilst on the car but when I had them out you could clearly see the rubber cracked and ripped to pieces. I didn't bother changing the bush, bought the whole arm.