31 12 080 Removing and installing/replacing both tension struts

Necessary preliminary tasks: 

• Remove both front wheels. See WHEELS .
• Remove front assembly underside protection. See REMOVING AND INSTALLING / REPLACING FRONT ASSEMBLY UNDERSIDE PROTECTION .
• Release WHEEL ARCH COVER on front left and right bottom and press to one side (only E82/E88/E92/E93)

Remove pedestrian protection (only E82/E88/E92/E93 from 03/2012): 

Slacken screw (1) on front pedestrian protection.

Release screws (2) from deformation element and adapter.

Tightening torque: 38 Nm

Fig 1: Removing Pedestrian Protection

Press deformation element (1) towards the bottom and remove adapter (2) towards the top.

Fig 2: Press Deformation Element Toward Bottom

Release nut (1), if necessary, grip at inner Torx socket.

Tightening torque: 175 Nm

Installation note: 

Keep tension strut to swivel bearing connection clean and free from oil and grease.

Replace self-locking nut.

Fig 3: Identifying Nut

Release bolt (1) and remove tension strut.

Tightening torque: see 1AZ in 31 12 CONTROL ARMS AND STRUTS

Raise locking nut (2) at area of bore and pull off from front axle support.

Installation note: 

Replace locking nut.

Tighten down screw connection in NORMAL POSITION .

Fig 4: Identifying Blot And Locking Nut

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.