33 31 503 Lowering/raising rear axle support (SWZ00-2040)

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2013 BMW X5 M, 2012 BMW X5 M, 2011 BMW X5 M, and 2010 BMW X5 M. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Special tools required:

WARNING: Danger of injury!
Failure to comply with the following instructions may result in the vehicle slipping off the lifting platform and critically injuring other persons.
Read and observe the notes on permissible load distribution in the Owner's Handbook, vehicle hoist.
Load the luggage compartment with a minimum of 100 kg before lowering/removing the rear axle support.

When supporting components, make sure that

the vehicle can no longer be raised or lowered
the vehicle does not lift off the locating plates on the lifting platform

Necessary preliminary tasks

Remove REAR WHEELS .
Tension BOTH COIL SPRINGS (and leave on vehicle).
Remove complete exhaust system.
Disconnect PLUG CONNECTION ON ACTUATOR UNIT (EMF) .
Unclip the lines for pulse sensor, brake pad wear sensor or shock absorber from the holders above the rear axle support.
Disconnect plug connection at both ride height sensors.

Version with self-levelling suspension:

Deactivate and drain AIR SPRING/SUSPENSION SYSTEM

IMPORTANT: Do not use any tools to dismantle the lower section of the air spring (1).

Tilt lower section of air spring (1) by hand towards front/side.

Installation note:

Press lower section of air spring (1) by hand into wheel carrier until it can be seen and heard to snap into place.

Fig 1: Removing Air Spring Lower Section

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Press brake pedal down to floor and secure with pedal support.

NOTE: The pedal support may only be released when the brake lines are reconnected.
This prevents brake fluid from emerging from the expansion tank and air from entering the system when the brake lines are opened.

Fig 2: Securing Brake Pedal Using Pedal Support

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Position an pan underneath to catch brake fluid.

Release banjo bolts (1), counter supporting brake hoses (2) at square head in the process.

Disconnect brake hoses (2) and seal off with seal plugs.

Installation note:

Ensure tension-free routing of the brake hose and sufficient distance to neighboring components.

Fig 3: Identifying Brake Hoses And Banjo Bolts

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Tightening torque 34 32 1AZ .

If necessary, position special tool 00 2 040 with 2nd person helping on workshop jack 00 2 030 .

Insert special tools 33 5 181 and 33 5 182 into corresponding receptacles of special tool 00 2 040 .

Lower special tool 33 3 274.

Fig 4: Positioning Special Tools On Workshop Jack (00 2 030)

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

NOTE: The jacking points on the left side are shown.

Align special tools 33 5 181 and 33 5 182 to rear axle support.

Support rear axle support by operating workshop jack 00 2 030 .

Fig 5: Aligning Special Tools (33 5 181 And 33 5 182) To Rear Axle Support

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Version with Dynamic Drive:

Remove RIGHT UNDERBODY PANELLING (REAR SECTION) .

IMPORTANT: Pay attention to control lines (2) when lowering and raising. Hydraulic lines must not be kinked/tensioned/bent!

= Banjo bolts

Fig 6: Identifying Control Lines And Banjo Bolts
Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

IMPORTANT: Lower rear axle support only as far as the point at which the rubber mounts can be changed.

Remove front and rear compression struts See 33 32 153 REMOVING AND INSTALLING/REPLACING FRONT COMPRESSION STRUT or 33 32 155 REMOVING AND INSTALLING/REPLACING REAR COMPRESSION STRUT and carefully lower rear axle support approx. 50 mm.

The rear compression strut will be discontinued in vehicles as of production date 03/2013.

Vehicles without the rear compression strut:

Release screw (1).

Tightening torque 33 33 1AZ .

Remove screw (1) and stop plate (2).

Fig 7: Identifying Stop Plate And Mounting Screw

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After installation

Activate and fill AIR SUSPENSION SYSTEM .
Bleed BRAKING SYSTEM .