How do I Change Shock Absorbers on a 1994 BMW 525I?

If you have the proper tools, you can change the shock absorbers on the BMW 525I yourself.

Shock absorbers and struts are part of the suspension on the BMW 525I. They make the ride smoother and keep the vehicle from bouncing. Like most other parts on your car, they wear out, and you need to replace them. You generally will need to replace shock absorbers about every 50,000 miles. You can complete this project in your driveway with the proper tools. It will take about 90 minutes for each wheel.

Things You'll Need

• Spring compressor
• Wrench set
• Wheel chocks
• Automobile jack
• Torque wrench

Instructions

1. Place the wheel chocks in front of the front wheels of the BMW. Remove the rear seat cushion and backrest from the car. Remove the trim panel from over the strut mount.

2. Raise the rear of the vehicle with the automobile jack. Place a jack stand under the BMW near the jacking point and raise it to the frame.

3. Place the spring compressor on the spring and tighten it until the pressure is off the strut. Remove the nuts at the top of the strut mount using a wrench. Remove the lower bolt with a wrench and lower the strut assembly from the car. Remove the top nut with a wrench and remove the top mount from the BMW.

4. Place the spring on the new top mount and install it on the BMW. Tighten the nut with the wrench. Install the strut and tighten the top bolts to 16 foot pounds with the torque wrench.

5. Loosely install the lower mounting bolt. Remove the jack stand from under the BMW. Lower the car to the ground. Tighten the lower mounting bolt to 94 foot pounds with the torque wrench.

Tips & Warnings

• Wear safety glasses when working on the BMW 525I to prevent eye injuries.

• It is impossible to install the new strut assembly without using a spring compressor.

References

• Auto Zone: BMW 525I Shock Absorbers