Situation: When a shock absorber is faulty on one side (leaking, noises, etc.), often both shock absorbers on the axle in question are replaced.
Effect: This is not necessary for technical reasons and causes the manufacturer not to recognize the unnecessarily removed shock absorbers as defective parts. Unnecessarily high costs for the customer can be avoided by replacing the shock absorber on one side only.
Procedure: If one shock absorber is damaged, it is only necessary to replace both shock absorbers when the car has driven in excess of 80 000 km.
Exception: On all M-GmbH models, when a limit value is exceeded on one side, it is still necessary always to replace both shock absorbers on the relevant axle.
BMW X3 Service & Repair Manual > Steering wheel: Removing and installing/replacing steering wheel
NOTE:
Chassis/wheel alignment is not necessary after the steering wheel has been
removed and installed or replaced.
Necessary preliminary work:
Remove AIRBAG UNIT.
Move wheels/steering wheel into straight-ahead driving position.
Disconnect plug connection.
Release screw (1) and remo ...