BMW 328i FWD Strut Replacement: Full Guide for 2013 Models
Replacing struts on a 2013 BMW 328i front-wheel drive is a DIY project that can save money. It’s much cheaper than what a BMW dealer would charge. For example, a BMW dealer might quote $1,065 CDN, including tax, for a rear strut replacement on an ’06 330i sport suspension. But, you can do it yourself for just $340 CDN, including tax and duty, by buying parts from trusted suppliers like FCP Euro.
Keeping your struts in good shape is key for your car’s performance. Struts play a big role in the suspension system and affect the car’s alignment. It’s common for cars to need new shocks or struts every 50,000 miles. Signs that you might need new ones include a bumpy ride, steering problems, and issues with braking. Regular checks are vital for a smooth ride and the best handling of your BMW 328i front-wheel drive.
Safety Measures for BMW Strut Replacement
Replacing struts on your BMW needs careful safety steps to avoid risks or injuries. It’s important to follow BMW maintenance tips for a safe and successful job. Using a vehicle lift is key to work safely under the car.
Before you start, make sure your workspace is ready and the car is secure. The car should be on a flat surface, with the parking brake on, and jack stands for extra safety. Wearing gloves and safety glasses also helps prevent injuries.
Required Safety Equipment
- Vehicle lift or jack stands
- Wheel chocks
- Protective gear (gloves, safety glasses)
Workspace Preparation
A clean and organized workspace is vital for a good strut replacement. Clear the area around the car, make sure it’s well-lit, and have all tools and equipment within reach.
Vehicle Securing Guidelines
Securing the car is key to avoid accidents or injuries. Make sure the car is on a level surface, apply the parking brake, and use wheel chocks to stop it from moving.
| Safety Precaution | Description |
|---|---|
| Vehicle Lift | Allows for safe and comfortable work underneath the vehicle |
| Jack Stands | Provides added safety and support for the vehicle |
| Protective Gear | Prevents injuries and ensures a safe working environment |
Essential Tools and Materials List
To replace the struts in your 2013 BMW 328i FWD smoothly, you need the right tools and materials. This includes standard and specialty equipment, like BMW strut replacement tools. These tools are made for this specific task.
Using the correct tools is key to avoid damaging parts. You’ll need a pry bar, press tool, and a 21mm ball joint nut. Also, a set of jack stands is recommended for safely lifting the vehicle.
You’ll need to replace the struts and any worn-out bushings. Remember, bushings should be replaced in pairs for the control arm. Using high-quality BMW tools and equipment will make the job easier and ensure success.
Here’s a list of essential tools and materials:
- BMW strut replacement tools
- Specialty equipment, such as a press tool and pry bar
- 21mm ball joint nut
- Jack stands
- New struts (e.g. BILSTEIN 22240316)
- Replacement bushings
With these tools and materials ready, you’re set to replace the struts. Your vehicle will have better handling and ride quality.
| Tool/Material | Description |
|---|---|
| BMW strut replacement tools | Specialized tools designed for strut replacement in BMW vehicles |
| Specialty equipment | Includes press tool and pry bar for specific tasks |
| 21mm ball joint nut | Required for certain components during the replacement process |
Pre-Replacement Inspection Steps
Before you replace the struts on your 2013 BMW 328i, a detailed inspection is key. A BMW strut inspection checks the struts and other parts. Look for signs like too much movement to see if they need to be replaced.
Checking for strut wear is important. Look for uneven tire wear, vibrations, or strange noises. Also, check the strut mounts, bearings, and other parts to make sure they work well.
Signs of Strut Wear
- Excessive play or movement in the strut
- Uneven tire wear
- Vibrations or clunking noises while driving
- Leaking fluid or damage to the strut housing
Component Assessment
When inspecting, check the strut mounts, bearings, and other parts. Look for wear or damage. Replace them if needed. A good inspection helps avoid problems later.
Doing a thorough inspection before replacing saves time and prevents problems. A BMW strut inspection is vital. Look for signs of wear and check the condition of all parts for a successful replacement.
2013 BMW 328i FWD Struts Replacement Process
Replacing the struts in a 2013 BMW 328i FWD involves several steps. It’s important to be patient and detail-oriented. The BMW suspension system aims for a smooth ride and handling. Over time, the struts may need to be replaced.
It’s best to replace struts in pairs for the best ride and performance. RepairPal suggests replacing both left and right struts at once. Also, driving carefully and regularly can help extend the life of your struts.
When replacing struts, consider a few things:
- Car age and mileage
- Driving conditions and habits
- Common signs of worn-out struts, like rattling sounds, vibration, and steering issues
Understanding these points and following the right steps can make strut replacement successful. Always check the vehicle’s manual and seek professional help if needed. With the right tools and knowledge, you can restore your BMW’s suspension system to its former glory.
Front Wheel and Brake Component Removal
Replacing the struts on your 2013 BMW 328i FWD needs careful removal of the front wheel and brake components. You must be precise to avoid damaging brake lines, sensor wires, and other important parts. Begin by loosening the lug nuts with a 21mm socket. Then, raise the vehicle with a hydraulic lift or jack stands to get to the wheel and brake parts.
Removing BMW wheels can be a bit challenging. But, with the right tools and methods, it can be done smoothly. After removing the wheel, you’ll see the brake rotor, caliper, and other parts. Be very careful with the brake lines and sensor wires to prevent damage. Proper handling of these components is key for your vehicle’s safety and performance.
Wheel Removal Procedure
- Loosen the lug nuts using a 21mm socket
- Raise the vehicle using a hydraulic lift or jack stands
- Remove the lug nuts and flat washers
- Pull the wheel straight off the hub
Brake Line Management
When taking off the brake caliper, be cautious not to stretch or damage the brake lines. Use a wrench to loosen the caliper bolts, then slide the caliper off the rotor. Use a wire to suspend the caliper from the suspension component to avoid putting tension on the brake line.
| Component | Size | Torque Spec |
|---|---|---|
| BMW Thrust Arm Ball Joint Nut | 18mm | 175Nm or 129 ft-lbs |
| BMW Axle Bolt | 21mm | 210Nm or 155 ft-lbs + 90° rotation |
Strut Assembly Disconnection Steps
To start disconnecting the strut assembly, it’s key to understand the need for careful BMW strut disassembly and suspension component removal. This step needs focus and the right tools to prevent damage to other parts.
The first step is to loosen the bolts that keep the strut assembly in place. Use a 10mm wrench and a 17 socket for this. It’s important to use the correct tools to avoid damaging the bolts or threads.
After loosening the bolts, the strut assembly can be removed from the vehicle. This might need some careful maneuvering. Knowing where the strut is and how it fits with other suspension parts is vital. The BMW strut disassembly process can be tricky, but with the right help, it can be done right.
Some important things to remember during suspension component removal include:
- Use jack stands to support the vehicle and keep it safe
- Remove the wheel and brake parts to get to the strut assembly
- Disconnect the sensor wires and brake lines to avoid damage
By following these steps and being careful, the strut assembly can be safely disconnected. This lets you remove the old strut and put in a new one. This ensures the vehicle’s suspension works well.
New Strut Installation Technique
Installing a new strut requires careful alignment and the right torque settings. First, make sure the car is on jack stands and the wheels are off. This lets you get to the strut assembly easily.
It’s important to follow the recommended torque settings for the strut’s bolts. This step is key to avoid damage and ensure the strut works right. Always check the BMW’s manual for the correct torque values.
Alignment Considerations
When installing, focus on aligning the strut correctly. This might mean adjusting it to get the right camber and toe. Proper alignment helps prevent uneven tire wear and keeps your car handling well.
Torque Specifications
After aligning, tighten the strut bolts to the right torque. Use a torque wrench to apply the correct force. Following these torque settings helps prevent damage and ensures a safe installation.
You’ll need a few tools for this job. A torque wrench, socket set, and jack stands are must-haves. Also, having a repair manual or online guides can help you through the process.
Component Reassembly Protocol
Reassembling your BMW suspension needs a specific order. This ensures everything fits right and is secure. You must pay close attention to detail and check the hardware to make sure it’s good.
It’s important to double-check all connections and hardware. Make sure all bolts and fasteners are tight. Also, check that all electrical connections are secure. This careful reassembly helps avoid future problems.
Connection Sequence
The order of connections is key to securing all parts. Start with the strut assembly, then the brakes, and lastly the wheel. Tighten bolts and fasteners in the right order to avoid damage.
Hardware Verification
Checking the hardware is essential for safety and function. Look for wear or damage on bolts, fasteners, and electrical connections. Replace any damaged parts to ensure your vehicle’s safety. A detailed reassembly and hardware check make your BMW suspension ready for the road.
Post-Installation Testing Methods
After putting new struts on your 2013 BMW 328i FWD, it’s key to do a series of tests. A detailed BMW suspension test will show if everything is working right. First, check the vehicle’s alignment. Bad alignment can cause uneven tire wear and affect how the car handles.
Next, do a strut performance check to make sure the new struts are working well. Drive the car on different roads and speeds. Listen for any odd noises or feel any unusual vibrations. Also, look at the suspension parts to make sure they’re all in place and working right.
Some important things to check during the test include:
- Vehicle stability and handling
- Tire wear and alignment
- Suspension component security and function
- Overall ride comfort and performance
By following these steps, you can make sure your new struts are working well. This will give you a safe and comfy drive. Always check your car’s manual for the right way to test and inspect.
Common Challenges and Solutions
Replacing BMW struts can face several challenges. Rust and alignment issues are common problems. Rust can weaken the strut, while bad alignment causes uneven tire wear and poor handling.
Worn-out parts, wrong installation, or parts that don’t fit are reasons for these issues. It’s important to troubleshoot these problems to avoid more damage. Rust can be fixed by applying a rust-inhibiting coating or replacing parts.
Rust-Related Issues
Rust is a big problem in BMW strut replacement. It can make the strut weak and unstable. It’s key to check for rust and fix it quickly.
This might mean cleaning the area, applying a rust-inhibiting coating, or replacing rusty parts.
Alignment Problems
Getting the strut alignment right is critical. It ensures even tire wear and good handling. Problems can come from wrong installation or worn-out parts.
To fix this, follow the vehicle’s manufacturer specs. Adjust the camber, toe, or ride height as needed to meet the recommended settings.
Part Compatibility
Choosing the right parts is essential in BMW strut replacement. Using the wrong parts can cause them to wear out or fail early. Always check the vehicle’s specs and choose parts that fit.
This might mean picking OEM or aftermarket parts made for your vehicle’s make and model.
Conclusion
Congratulations on finishing this guide on replacing struts in your 2013 BMW 328i FWD. You now know how to do it yourself. DIY maintenance saves money and makes you feel proud of your car.
Replacing struts does more than just make your car handle better. It keeps your car running well for a long time. This means you can keep enjoying the great driving experience that BMW is known for.
If you need help or have questions, call the experts at Pelican Parts. They’re ready to help at 310-626-8765, Monday to Friday, 7am to 5pm (PST). Happy wrenching, and enjoy your car’s improved performance!
