Front Strut replacement

Hey guys,

Need some advice. My X3 puked its oil out of the LF dampener and needs replacement.

What would you do?
1. OEM or aftermarket?
2. Is a service manual available for a 2006 X3? If so where can I buy one?
3. Any additional parts that should be ordered while changing both the left and right?

4. Last, what is the best site on the net for our Bimmers parts?


Thanks for your help

~Jamie

Originally Posted by X3 Soccer Dad

Hey guys,

Need some advice. My X3 puked its oil out of the LF dampener and needs replacement.

What would you do?
1. OEM or aftermarket?
2. Is a service manual available for a 2006 X3? If so where can I buy one?
3. Any additional parts that should be ordered while changing both the left and right?

4. Last, what is the best site on the net for our Bimmers parts?


Thanks for your help

~Jamie

1.) Most do aftermarket due to the cost savings. Bilstein HDs are a popular choice.
2.) No Bentley Manual
3.) Strut tower bearings and the rubber pads. Possibly springs depending on mileage.

Here are some helpful threads.
http://www.bimmerfest.com/forums/sho...light=bilstein
http://www.bimmerfest.com/forums/sho...t=spring+thing

My '06 had same problem with left front. Replaced both at indy for serious coin ($2K) along with some other maint. work! Indy used OEM struts and assorted collateral stuff. Happened at around 80K miles. Didn't want to hassle with trying to do it myself -- don't have the equipment for that sort of thing any more and it was easier to just have it done. First time I have ever had a strut fail in any car. Have replaced them before because of wear but outright failing -- no.

Uncle-When you say OEM struts, you mean BMW original part or anyo ther OEM brand like Sachs?

My right front strut started to leak last year, so both fronts were replaced with the Sachs (OEM) struts, along with the lower control arms and bushings for around $1500, not including the alignment afterwards.

I would put the Bilstein HDs on--and do the mounts and pads.

OEM from BMW is what I recall.

Had both of my front shocks/struts replaced about a month ago at BMW dealership as well at 110,000 miles. Front springs were fine, but just had the rear ones replaced a month earlier. Must have broken a seal on the front because I had grease all over front left wheel after a trip on a very rough highway. Noticed poor ride/bounciness afterwards and found it was broken. Hefty bill of nearly $1,800 for fronts. Noticed the dealership charged full list on parts. I could have bought them from one of the board sponsors for about 30% less, but a little too intense for my patience level to replace.

Originally Posted by AzNMpower32

My right front strut started to leak last year, so both fronts were replaced with the Sachs (OEM) struts, along with the lower control arms and bushings for around $1500, not including the alignment afterwards.

Why did you replace the control arms? Were they bent?

I was going to ask the same thing...usually the bushings are the ones needing replacing not the actual CA's.

Originally Posted by vwvwvw

Why did you replace the control arms? Were they bent?

The right control arm was bent.

Awesome thread guys! Thanks for the input.