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

WARNING: This page does not describe the selected car, but rather 9 other vehicles, including the 2008 BMW 335i, 2008 BMW 328i, 2008 BMW 323i, 2007 BMW 335i, and 2007 BMW 328i. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

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 Rear Wheel.
Remove Luggage Compartment Wheel Arch Trim

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.