Rear Shocks & Springs
Rear Shocks & Springs
Section titled “Rear Shocks & Springs”The E46 rear suspension uses separate shock absorbers and coil springs in a multi-link configuration.
OEM Shock Options
Section titled “OEM Shock Options”- Sachs: OEM supplier, stock ride quality
- Bilstein B4: OEM replacement
- Bilstein B6 (HD): Performance upgrade, firmer
- Bilstein B8: Short-body for lowered applications
Replacement Procedure
Section titled “Replacement Procedure”- Raise rear of vehicle, support on jack stands
- Remove rear wheel
- Support trailing arm with a jack
- Remove lower shock bolt (100 Nm)
- From trunk, remove upper shock mount nuts (piston rod nut: 14 Nm, mount-to-body nuts: 28 Nm)
- Lower jack slightly and remove shock
- Install new shock in reverse order
- Springs: Requires spring compressor for separate replacement