BMW 3 (E46). Manual — part 129

Slide hammer with adapter BMW 33 4
201/202/203 33 2 116

Inner bearing race puller set BMW 33 4
400

Front suspension construction

Some front suspension components
are constructed of weight saving
materials. For example, the control
arms (in rear wheel drive models) are
forged aluminum. This allows for
weight reduction in the car, as well as a
lower unsprung mass for better
handling. However, the aluminum
construction prevents removal or
replacement of the pressed-in ball
joints.

WARNING!

Physical safety could be
impaired if procedures
described here are undertaken
without the proper service tools
and equipment. Be sure to have
the right tools on hand before
beginning any job.

Do not reuse self-locking nuts or
bolts. They are designed to be
used only once and may fail if
reused. Always replace

self-locking fasteners any time
they are loosened or removed.

Do not install bolts and nuts
coated with undercoating wax,
as the correct tightening torque
cannot be assured. Always
clean the threads with solvent
before installation, or install
new parts.

Do not attempt to weld or
straighten any suspension
components. Replace damaged
parts.

CAUTION!

Due to the aluminum
construction of the control arms,
great care must be taken when
working on and around the front
suspension:

When replacing any damaged
front end components, always
check the condition of the
control arms

Do not clean control arms with
wire brushes made of brass or
iron. Only use brushes made of
stainless steel.

Do not expose control arms to
temperatures exceeding 80°C
(176°F); sparks created by
grinding; battery acid or other
highly corrosive materials; or
steel welding splashes.

Front suspension

assembly (6 cylinder
models)

1

-

Upper strut
mount

2

-

Coil spring

3

-

Strut assembly

4

-

Control arm

5

-

Control arm
bushing and
mount

6

-

Tie rod

7

-

Steering rack

8

-

Front stabilizer
bar

9

-

Front
suspension
subframe

10

-

Steering arm

11

-

Stabilizer bar
link

310-2

Shock Absorbers and
Springs

Note:

Setting the ride height is covered in

300 Suspension, Steering and Brakes-

General

.

The front suspension shock absorbers
in E46 cars are McPherson struts. The
strut is a major component of the
suspension and supports the spring.
Most strut assembly components are
available as replacement parts. Struts
and/or springs should always be
replaced in pairs.

Front strut, upper strut mount or spring
replacement is a two-step procedure:

Removal of strut assembly from
vehicle

Disassembly and replacement of
components on workbench

Strut assembly, removing and
installing

-

Raise car and remove front wheel.

WARNING!

Make sure that the car is firmly
supported on jack stands designed
for the purpose. Place the jack
stands beneath a structural chassis
point. Do not place jack stands
under suspension parts.

Pull brake fluid hose and ABS sensor
wire harness off bracket at steering arm
pinch bolt.