Checking the condition of suspension and steering components (BMW 5 Series E28)

Annually or every 20,000 km.

Steering and suspension components should be inspected regularly. Worn or damaged steering and suspension components can cause excessive and dangerous tire wear, poor ride and handling characteristics, and increased fuel consumption. For more information on steering and suspension components, refer to Chapter Steering.

Checking the strut/shock absorber

1. Park the car on a level surface, turn off the engine and apply the parking brake. Check the tire pressure.

2. Press on one corner of the car, then release it, paying attention to the movement of the body. It should stop rocking and return to its original position after one or two pumps.

3. If the vehicle continues to rock or does not return to its original position, a possible cause is a worn or loose suspension strut or shock absorber.

4. Repeat the above procedure for each of the three remaining corners of the car.

5. Jack up the vehicle and securely place it on axle stands.

6. Inspect the struts/shocks for signs of hydraulic fluid leakage. A light film of fluid is not a cause for concern. If a leak is found, make sure that the fluid is coming from the strut/shock and not from somewhere else. If it is a strut/shock leak, replace the struts or shocks as a pair on the same axle (or all four).

7. Check the installation and integrity of the struts/shock absorbers. Check the upper strut mounts for damage and signs of wear. If any are found, replace the struts or shock absorbers.

8. If it is necessary to replace the struts or shock absorbers, refer to Chapter Front suspension. Always replace both components on the same axle, otherwise the safety of the vehicle may be compromised. If possible, try to replace all four components as a set.

Checking the condition of the steering and suspension system

1. Inspect the steering system components for damage and deformation. Look for signs of fluid leakage, damaged gaskets, boots and fittings.



2. Clean the lower end of the steering knuckle. Have an assistant grab the lower edge of the wheel and rock it while you watch the ball joints that connect the steering knuckle to the axle arm move. Inspect the ball joint boots for tears (indicated by an arrow). If you find any play or torn or leaking protective boots, the ball joint(s) should be replaced.

3. Grasp each front wheel at the front and rear edges and try to turn it with the front edge in and the rear edge out to check for play in the steering gear. If play is found, check for loose steering gear mounts and tie rod joints. If loose, tighten them. If the tie rods are loose, the tie rod joints may be worn out (first check the tightness of the nuts). Additional information on the steering and suspension system can be found in Chapters Steering, Front suspension, Rear wheel suspension.