51 71 373 Removing and installing/replacing tension strut on spring strut dome

IMPORTANT: Vehicles must not be driven without their tension struts. Driving without tension struts will result in bodywork damage.

Necessary Preliminary Tasks:

If necessary, remove cover on spring strut dome on left and right:

Release expansion rivets (1).
Remove cover (3),
Taking care not to damage retaining lug (2).

Fig 1: Identifying Cover On Spring Strut
Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

If necessary, remove tension strut panels:

Release expansion rivets on panel (2).
Remove panel (2) in direction of arrow.

Fig 2: Locating Expansion Rivets On Panel
Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Release screws (1).

Remove tension strut (2).

Installation:

Tighten down self-tapping screws (2) to specified torque Tightening torque, refer to 51 71 4AZ in BODY EQUIPMENT - TIGHTENING TORQUES - 545I (4.4L) E60 .

Fig 3: Identifying Tension Strut Retaining Screws

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.