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

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.

NOTE:

Read and comply with NOTES ON REPLACING SHOCK ABSORBERS .

IMPORTANT: Only for vehicles with self-levelling suspension (air suspension).
Ensure correct mating (absorber/support cup) when replacing shock absorbers.
The following mating combinations (absorber/support cup) are permissible.

Damper	Support pot
A 394.5 mm	B 69.2 mm
C 347.5 mm	C 22.0 mm

Absorber/support cup mating must be identical on left/right sides.

Fig 1: Identifying Shock Absorbers And Absorber/Support Cup Dimensions

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Installation note:

All screws, nuts, bolts and hose clamps removed during the repair must be replaced.
Retaining elements on chassis and suspension and steering parts must be replaced.

Necessary preliminary tasks

Remove REAR SHOCK ABSORBER .

Slacken nut (1).

Remove joint seat (2), support bearing upper part (3) and support bearing flange (4).

Installation note:

Insert support bearing upper section (3) correctly in support bearing flange (4).

Replace self-locking nut.

Tightening torque 33 52 2AZ .

Fig 2: Identifying Support Bearing Upper Section, Flange, Joint Seat And Nut

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Remove spacer sleeve (1) with support bearing lower section (2).

Check protective tube (3) for damage, replace if necessary.

Installation note:

Insert spacer sleeve (1) correctly in support bearing lower section (2).

Fig 3: Identifying Support Bearing Lower Section, Spacer Sleeve And Protective Tube

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.