51 23 265 Removing and installing/replacing left or right gas strut for engine bonnet/hood

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2003 BMW X5, 2002 BMW X5, and 2001 BMW X5. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

WARNING: Risk of injury and damage! For the following tasks, you must take the appropriate measures to support the engine bonnet/hood. As an alternative, you can enlist the help of a second person to hold the bonnet/hood.

Raise bonnet/hood lid.

Removing gas spring strut at top and bottom:

Push retainer spring to end of gas spring strut.
Remove gas spring strut from ball head.

Fig 1: Identifying Retainer Spring And Strut

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.