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How to Replace Struts on a 2003 BMW 330

The 2003 BMW 330 is a rear wheel drive sedan that uses independent suspension setups on all four wheels. The independent suspension relies on struts to absorb bumps in the road. However, these struts wear out like any other automotive components, and the stock OEM struts need to be replaced every 60,000 miles. Replacing the struts yourself can save you a lot of money and should only take a day for most people to do.

Instructions

1

Park the 2003 BMW 330 somewhere flat with a lot of room to the sides. Also make sure that you are not blocking anyone in as the car will be stuck in place until the struts are all changed out. Put it in "Park" and then turn the sedan off. Jack up the car by sliding a car jack under the jack points at each corner. When a corner is elevated, slide in a jack stand to keep the car up. Once the car is fully elevated, remove the wheels from the 330 with your tire iron.

2

Unbolt the sway bar linkages from both the front and the rear wheels. The sway bars help keep the car from wallowing in the corners by connecting opposite side control arms. The bars are held to the bottom of the car by bushing mounts, but all you need to do is unbolt the ends of the bars from the bottom control arms. Rotate the ends of the sway bars down so that they are out of the way.

3

Unbolt the single bottom retaining bolt on the front right strut. Use a breaker bar to wedge the bolt out as it will be firmly stuck in. Then unbolt the top three bolts at the top of the strut and use the breaker bar to wedge the entire strut out. Be caul to support the strut so that it does not fall. Then bolt in the top of the new strut into the 330s frame. Once it is supported, raise the steering knuckle up and bolt in the bottom of the strut. Repeat this process on the left front wheel as well.

4

Fold down the rear seat of the 300 and pull off the plastic tab over the top of the struts. Unbolt the bolt underneath for the right rear, and then go to the right rear wheel well and unbolt the bottom of the bolt from the hub assembly. Pry the strut out with the breaker bar and place it to the side. Bolt in the new strut and then repeat the process on the left side. Replace the plastic tabs and then fold the back seat back up.

5

Bolt the sway bars back into place and then put the wheels back on the 330. Lower the 330 off the stands and then look at the corners to make sure the struts are supporting the cars weight.