33 52 161 Replacing thrust bearing (lower section) for rear left or right spring strut/shock absorber

WARNING: This page does not describe the selected car, but rather 6 other vehicles, including the 2013 BMW 128i, 2012 BMW 128i, 2011 BMW 128i, 2010 BMW 128i, and 2009 BMW 128i. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Necessary preliminary tasks:

Remove rear shock absorber .

Press support bearing lower section (1) with seal grommet (2) out of shock absorber mounting.

Installation:

Clean shock absorber mounting including contact surface (3) all round.

Insert thrust bearing lower section (1) in sealing grommet (2).

Fig 1: Identifying Support Bearing Lower Section With Seal Grommet

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Installation:

Coat sealing grommet as illustrated with Circolight and press into shock absorber mounting.

Fig 2: Identifying Shock Absorber Mounting

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.