D3 MT Shocks

Arvi · Post by **Arvi** » Wed Jun 21, 2017 1:52 pm

One of my rear shocks has started to mist so I have looked in to replacements and from reading the forum Bilsteins seem to be a recommended alternative to the stock item.

I did for a while think now I should trade the car in as I've had it for 5 years, but I can't find an alternative I'd be happy with, without paying a lot more for say B3 or a 5 series 520/530 . Also as years go on I need to budget for wear and tear items but this needs to be offset against depreciation on a newer car.

Anyone else in a similar predicament and thought - better the deveil you know?

Anyway I emailed Bilstein who recommended the B6 and B8 Kit and gave me the following links and think I am set on the B8 Kit and getting both rears replaced:

Bilstein B8 - https://www.bilstein-shocks.co.uk/products/24-120425 - Â£133 each

Bilstein B6 adjustable https://www.bilstein-shocks.co.uk/products/26-181936 - Â£200.72 each

This company has them on offer at Â£94.00

https://www.buycarparts.co.uk/bilstein/ ... YUQAvD_BwE

Anyone used Buy Car Parts before?

Reviews of B8s online state that the ride is harsh but I'd like to think that with the Alpina springs and new shocks the ride wouldn't be too bad and may even improve by refreshing the shocks.

I did call Euro Car Parts to see if they could supply as they have 30% off. The provided me with their product code for the Bilstein B8 part as its hard to find Alpina parts using their vehicle finder. The link is below for anyones future reference with the product code 935111410. Its priced at Â£136.08 but you cannot use the discount codes on Performance Parts

http://www.eurocarparts.com/search/935111410

So before I go ahead and order, if anyone can advise if they have experience of replacement shocks and if it sounds ok to go ahead with the B8 kit. Also if I should order any other parts at the same time.

I would probably look to get my local garage (Autotech Warwick) to replace them but if anyone knows of an alternative garage in the Warwickshire area that they can recommend with good labour rates please let me know.

Arvi · Post by **Arvi** » Thu Jul 13, 2017 12:02 pm

Has anyone retained there old shocks after replacing them, to be refurbished and if so what was the refurb cost?

I am wondering if I should ask the garage to scrap my shocks when they come off or if they are of use to anyone on this forum for the future if I decide not to skip them.

Arvi · Post by **Arvi** » Fri Jul 14, 2017 4:54 pm

Just had a call from the garage. Bilstein B8 shocks are on and fitted with no issues

Should I get alignment done now or wait for them to settle? Some information on the net states that the replacing the rear shocks does not necessitate the need to get alignment done but to ensure accurate alignment and wear on tyres I will get it done.

My mechanic also advised on getting guide supports from BMW, or if you want to get them yourself, the part number is 33 50 6 771 737. They were ordered as a precaution in case the existing ones were not reusable but he advised they were in good order.

The reviews of Buycarparts.co.uk are very negative and I was worried when I ordered if the Â£40 per shock saving on there website was worth the risk and if I would get the items I ordered. Paid by credit card for extra protection. Delivery was within 5 working days.

So Â£194 for parts (including return postage), and Â£90 labour for new rear shocks on a MT D3.