33 52 000 Removing and installing / replacing rear left or right shock absorber

WARNING: This page is about a different variant/trim than selected.

IMPORTANT: Installing shock absorbers of different manufacturers on a single axle is not permitted!

NOTE: Use BMW part number (1) to find the matching shock absorber.

NOTE: Read and comply with Information On Replacing Shock Absorbers.

Fig 1: Identifying BMW Shock Absorber Part Number

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Necessary preliminary tasks:

Remove protective cap.

Release nut (1); if necessary, grip at hexagon head.

Remove support bearing upper section (2).

Installation:

Replace support bearing upper section (2).

For tightening torque refer to 33 52 1AZ in 33 52 SHOCK ABSORBERS .

Fig 2: Identifying Support Bearing Upper Section And Nut

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

WARNING: Danger of injury!

Car may tilt off lifting platform if the workshop jack is incorrectly handled.

Release nut; if necessary brace on hex head.

Raise wheel carrier with workshop jack until shock absorber can be removed from rubber mount.

Compress shock absorber and remove through wheel arch.

Installation:

Replace self-locking nut.

For tightening torque refer to 33 52 2AZ in 33 52 SHOCK ABSORBERS .

Fig 3: Identifying Rear Shock Absorber Self-Locking Nut

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Replacement:

Remove thrust bearing (lower section), check for damage and replace if necessary.

Remove support pot (1) and auxiliary damper (2) with protective tube (3) from rear shock absorber (4).

Installation:

Check auxiliary damper (2) for damage and replace if necessary.

Fig 4: Identifying Support Pot, Auxiliary Damper, Protective Tube And Rear Shock Absorber

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.