31 31 000 Removing And Installing Complete Left Or Right Spring Strut Shock Absorber

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2010 BMW M5, 2009 BMW M5, 2008 BMW M5, 2007 BMW M5, and 2006 BMW M5. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

IMPORTANT: If the centering pin is missing from the support bearing, the position of the studs to the wheel arch must be marked so that the original camber is approximately maintained.
Only one nut may ever be released for marking.

Necessary preliminary tasks:

Remove swivel bearing

M5:

Disconnect plug connection (2).

Unclip connecting cable (1) from spring strut dome cover (3).

Detach connecting cable (1) from spring strut.

Fig 1: Identifying Connecting Cable From Spring Strut And Plug Connection

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

If necessary, release expander rivet (1).

If necessary, unclip spring strut dome cover (2) from front cross-strut.

Fig 2: Identifying Expander Rivet And Spring Strut Dome Cover

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Centering pin missing: Make position of studs in relation to wheel arch.

Secure spring strut against falling out.

Unscrew nuts.

Remove spring strut downwards out of wheel arch.

Installation:

Align spring strut using centering pin to bore in wheel arch or studs to wheel arch and push upwards.

Replace self-locking nuts.

Tighten to specified torque. See 31 31 1AZ in FRONT AXLE -- TORQUE SPECIFICATIONS .

Fig 3: Locating Nuts

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

After installation:

Carry out wheel alignment check if a spring strut with support bearing was or has been installed without centering pin.