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

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2011 BMW X6 and 2010 BMW X6. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

NOTE:

Read and comply with notes on replacing shock absorbers.
Read and comply with BMW Parts Department notes.

IMPORTANT: Only for vehicles with self-levelling suspension (air suspension).
Ensure correct mating (absorber/support cup) when replacing shock absorbers.
The following mating combinations (absorber/support cup) are permissible.

Damper	Support pot
A 394.5 mm	B 69.2 mm
C 347.5 mm	C 22.0 mm

Fig 1: Identifying Shock Absorbers (Absorber/Support Cup) Dimension

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Absorber/support cup mating must be identical on left/right sides.

Installation note:

All screws, nuts, bolts and hose clamps removed during the repair must be replaced.
Retaining elements on chassis and suspension and steering parts must be replaced.

Necessary preliminary tasks:

Remove REAR SHOCK ABSORBER

Slacken nut (1).

Remove joint seat (2), support bearing upper part (3) and support bearing flange (4).

Installation note:

Insert support bearing upper section (3) correctly in support bearing flange (4).

Replace self-locking nut.

Tightening torque 33 52 2AZ .

Fig 2: Identifying Joint Seat, Bearing Upper Part, Bearing Flange And Nut

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Remove spacer sleeve (1) with support bearing lower section (2).

Check protective tube (3) for damage, replace if necessary.

Installation note:

Insert spacer sleeve (1) correctly in support bearing lower section (2).

Fig 3: Identifying Spacer Sleeve, Bearing Lower Section And Protective Tube

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.