51 71 373 Removing And Installing/Replacing Tension Strut On Spring Strut Dome

WARNING: This page does not describe the selected car, but rather 10 other vehicles, including the 2010 BMW 535xi, 2010 BMW 528xi, 2009 BMW 535xi, 2009 BMW 528xi, and 2008 BMW 535xi. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

IMPORTANT: Vehicles must not be driven without tension struts.
Driving without tension struts will result in bodywork damage.

Necessary preliminary tasks:

Remove lower microfilter housing section on left/right

If necessary, remove cover on spring strut dome on left/right:

Release expander rivets (1).
Remove cover (3),
taking care not to damage retaining lug (2)

Fig 1: Identifying Expander Rivets And Retaining Lug
Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

If necessary, remove tension strut panels:

Release expander rivets on panel (2)
Remove panel (2) in direction of arrow

Fig 2: Identifying Expander Rivets And Panel
Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Important - modified screw connection!

Screws must be replaced and - because of the modified surface coating - tightened to increased torque!

Release screws (1).

Remove tension strut (2).

Installation:

Replace screws.

Tightening torque 51 61 1AZ.

Fig 3: Identifying Tension Strut And Screws

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.