Carry out check

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There must always be a minimum amount of play in the guide joint.

Check guide joint play
NOTE: For this purpose, apply light pressure to the compression strut (in the area of the guide joint) in the horizontal and vertical directions.

Fig 1: Identifying Guide Joint
Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.
- Play is OK: Check bolt connection
- Play is not OK: Replace guide joint
Check bolt connection (compression strut to guide joint) by tightening to 60 % of tightening torque 31 12 6AZ and listening for cracking sound. See 31 12 CONTROL ARMS AND STRUTS
- Torque wrench cracking sound: Guide joint does not have to be replaced
- Bolt connection turns: Replace compression strut and guide joint