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

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2010 BMW M3, 2009 BMW M3, and 2008 BMW M3. 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 And Sealing Grommet

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.