Shock Absorber: Removal

Remove rear wheel.
Remove trunk trim panel if necessary.
Support trailing arm on workshop lifter (1) and release bolt. See Fig 1.
If vehicle is a non-convertible, to to step 7. If vehicle is a convertible, go to next step.
Open soft top compartment cover. Remove plastic covers (1) in soft top compartment. See Fig 2.
Release nuts (1) and remove shock absorber downwards. See Fig 3. Go to step 8.
Unscrew nuts. See Fig 4.
If a reinforcement plate (1) is fitted on left side of vehicle, you must reinstall reinforcing plate (1) and seal left and right support bearing with butylene tape (2). See Fig 5.

Fig 1: Supporting Trailing Arm With Workshop Jack

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Fig 2: Removing Plastic Covers In Soft Top Compartment

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Fig 3: Releasing Nuts And Removing Shock Absorber Downward

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Fig 4: Locating Shock Absorber Nuts

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Fig 5: Installing Reinforcing Plate

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.