31 31 000 Removing and installing complete left or right spring strut shock absorber

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2010 BMW 535i, 2009 BMW 535i, and 2008 BMW 535i. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

IMPORTANT: If the centering pin is missing from the support bearing, the position of the studs to the wheel arch must be marked so that the original camber is approximately maintained.
Only one nut may ever be released for marking.

Necessary preliminary tasks:

Remove SWIVEL BEARING

M5:

Disconnect plug connection (2).

Unclip connecting cable (1) from spring strut dome cover (3).

Detach connecting cable (1) from spring strut.

Fig 1: Identifying Plug Connection And Connecting Cable From Spring Strut

G04742357

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

If necessary, release expander rivet (1).

If necessary, unclip spring strut dome cover (2) from front cross-strut.

Fig 2: Identifying Expander Rivet And Spring Strut Dome Cover

G04742358

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Centering pin missing: Make position of studs in relation to wheel arch.

Secure spring strut against falling out.

Unscrew nuts.

Remove spring strut downwards out of wheel arch.

Installation:

Align spring strut using centering pin to bore in wheel arch or studs to wheel arch and push upwards.

Replace self-locking nuts.

Tightening torque 31 31 1AZ .

Fig 3: Locating Spring Strut Nuts

G04742359

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

After installation:

Carry out wheel alignment check if a spring strut with support bearing was or has been installed without centering pin. See KDS CHASSIS/WHEEL ALIGNMENT CHECK WITH LOAD UP TO DESIGN POSITION or KDS CHASSIS/WHEEL ALIGNMENT CHECK WITH RIDE-HEIGHT MEASUREMENT WITHOUT LOAD .