Rear Spring Strut Shock Absorber: Removal

CAUTION: Extreme cleanliness must be ensured in area of air line connections during removal and installation. Even small dirt particles can cause leakage in the system.

1. Lift rear axle. After 2 minutes, this causes accumulator to discharge and line on shock absorber can be unfastened. Seal opened connections with protective caps.
2. Remove trim for rear shelf.
3. Remove wheel.
4. Remove brake caliper and tie back. See BRAKE article.
5. Lift off cover from shock absorber and unfasten nut. If necessary, disconnect plug connection for EDC. See Fig 1 .
6. Unfasten nut for control arm. See Fig 2 .
7. Unfasten shock absorber from wheel carrier. See Fig 3 .

Fig 1: Identifying Top Of Spring Strut Shock Absorber

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Fig 2: Removing Upper Control Arm

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Fig 3: Unfastening Shock Absorber

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.