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 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.

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 Thrust Bearing Lower Section, Sealing Grommet And Contact Surface

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Installation:

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

Fig 2: Identifying Sealing Grommet

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.