How to Replace Front Strut 97-06 BMW 325Xi
Difficulty: Advanced · About 150 min · Bmw 325xi
Replace a front strut on a 1997–2006 BMW 325Xi, supporting the knuckle to protect the CV axle, compressing the coil spring with a suitable tool, and aligning the spring correctly before reassembly.
Tools you will need
- 12mm Socket
- 16mm Wrench
- Jack Stands
- 18mm Socket
- Strut Spring Compression Tool
- 21mm Socket
- Bungee Cord
- T30 Socket
- T27 Torx Socket
- Ratchet
- Floor Jack
- 1/2 Inch Breaker Bar
Parts and supplies
- Front strut
- Strut mount and bump stop
- Strut fasteners
Steps
Raise the vehicle and remove the wheel
Loosen the wheel bolts, then raise and support the vehicle securely. Remove the wheel and keep the fasteners in order.
Disconnect the strut from the suspension
Remove the sway bar link fastener and the lower strut pinch bolt. Separate the strut from the knuckle and support the knuckle with a strap so its weight cannot pull on the CV axle, brake hose, or ABS wire.
Remove the strut assembly
Remove the upper strut mount nuts while supporting the assembly from below. Lower the strut out of the wheel well without letting the knuckle or axle drop.
Compress the coil spring safely
Use a properly rated spring compressor with its hooks seated opposite each other, and compress the spring evenly until it is no longer loading the mount. Never remove the center nut while the spring remains under tension; use an assembled replacement strut if you lack the correct equipment.
Transfer the mount and spring
Remove the strut rod nut using the correct counterhold tool and transfer the mount, spring, and bump stop in their original order. Inspect the spring for cracks and the mount bearing for binding before assembly.
Assemble the replacement strut
Install the spring on the new strut with its end seated in the lower perch index. Refit the mount and tighten the rod nut to the vehicle specification while maintaining safe spring compression, then release the compressor slowly and evenly.
Reinstall the strut assembly
Feed the assembly into the tower and align the upper mount index. Start the upper nuts, seat the lower strut tab fully in the knuckle, and reinstall the pinch bolt and sway bar link fastener to specification.
Install the wheel and check alignment
Reinstall the wheel and torque its bolts in a star pattern to the vehicle specification. Check brake hose and ABS wire routing, then have the alignment inspected before normal driving.
Check your vehicle’s repair manual for exact specifications and fit.