BMW X3 Service & Repair Manual: Information on replacing shock absorbers

Situation: When a shock absorber is faulty on one side (leaking, noises, limit values exceeded on the shock tester), 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.

INSTRUCTIONS (CHASSIS COMPONENTS MADE OF ALUMINIUM)

Due to the chemical and corrosion characteristics of aluminium, always comply with the following points when handling aluminium components:

• Do not bring into contact with battery acid!
• Do not clean with wire brushes made of brass or iron! Always use wire brushes with stainless steel bristles!
• Do not expose to flying sparks when grinding/separating! Cover components!
• Do not strike with steel welding splashes! Cover components!
• Do not expose to temperatures > 80 ºC, even for brief periods! Temperatures in paint facilities do not have the same impact