31 33 100 Replacing front left or right coil spring

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2013 BMW 550i GT, 2012 BMW 550i GT, 2011 BMW 550i GT, and 2010 BMW 550i GT. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Special tools required:

IMPORTANT: Both coil springs on the relevant axle must be replaced only in the event of corrosion breakage!

The coil spring is allocated in the Electronic Parts Catalogue (EPC) under the menu item "Spring table" after the vehicle identification number has been entered and the relevant optional equipment of the car has been selected.

WARNING: Prior to each use of special tool 31 3 340 , it is essential to read the associated Owner's Handbook fully!
All the safety precautions and instructions contained in the Owner's Handbook must be strictly observed!

Failure to observe these safety precautions and instructions increases the risk of serious physical injury, damage to your health and damage to property and equipment!

IMPORTANT:

Prior to each use, check the special tools for defects, modifications and operational reliability.
Damaged/modified special tools must not be used!
No changes or modifications may be made to the special tools!
These special tools are intended solely for the purpose of tightening and relieving cylindrical and tapered suspension springs.
Keep special tools dry, clean and (down to the spindle) free from grease.
Impact screwdrivers are prohibited!
Do not compress coil spring to full extent.

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 FRONT SPRING STRUT .
Relieve tension on coil spring and remove from special tools 31 3 351 .

Fig 1: Removing Coil Spring From Special Tool (31 3 351)
Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

IMPORTANT: To be able to align the support bearing to the spring-strut bore when assembling the spring strut (see illustration), the spring in the spring tensioner must be positioned correctly!

The spring coil with the largest diameter must be positioned against the support bearing
The upper coil spring end must be in contact with the limit position of the spring pad!

Fig 2: Positioning Of Spring With Mounted Support Bearing And Gauge (83 30 2 210 780) In Spring Tensioner
Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.
Position the spring with mounted support bearing and gauge 83 30 2 210 780 in the spring tensioner so that the marks (1) are positioned vertically toward the top.
Position the gauge on the support bearing:

Right support bearing:

In vehicles to 04/2010, position mark "RIGHT A" on arrow at support bearing

In vehicles from 04/2010, position mark "RIGHT B" on arrow at support bearing

Left support bearing:

Position mark "LEFT" on arrow at support bearing

See also REPLACING SPRING STRUT!

WARNING: Do not compress coil spring to full extent.
Coils of coil spring must be located completely in recesses of special tools 31 3 351 !

Tension coil spring.

Fig 3: Removing Coil Spring From Special Tool (31 3 351)

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Further assembly:

See REPLACING FRONT LEFT OR RIGHT SPRING STRUT .