Safety Warning
DIY auto repair can cause serious injury, fire, or vehicle damage. These guides are for informational purposes only. Always follow OEM torque specs, wear PPE, and consult a certified mechanic if you are unsure. You are solely responsible for your safety.
31 12 080 Removing And Installing/Replacing Both Tension Struts
Necessary preliminary tasks:
- Except M3: Remove both front wheels . See 36 10 300 REMOVING OR INSTALLING FRONT OR REAR WHEEL .
- Remove front underbody protection . See 51 47 490 REMOVING AND INSTALLING/REPLACING FRONT UNDERBODY PROTECTION .
Release nut (1); if necessary, grip at Torx socket (T40).
Installation:
Keep tension strut to swivel bearing connection clean and free from oil and grease.
Replace self-locking nut.
Tightening torque. Refer to 31 12 2AZ in 31 12 CONTROL ARMS AND STRUTS .
Release bolt (1) and remove tension strut.
Raise locking nut (2) in area of bore and detach from front axle carrier.
Installation:
Replace locking nut.
Tighten bolt connection in normal position . See 32 00... MOVING VEHICLE INTO NORMAL POSITION .
Tightening torque. Refer to 31 12 1AZ in 31 12 CONTROL ARMS AND STRUTS .
NO RELATED
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When to See a Mechanic
Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:
- • You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
- • Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
- • The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
- • You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
- • You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.