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Should (warranty) replace shocks in pairs?

Specific discussion about the E89 2009 Z4 (sDrive35is, sDrive35i, sDrive30i, sDrive23i)
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spanna2000
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Should (warranty) replace shocks in pairs?

Post by spanna2000 » Thu May 11, 2017 11:33 pm

Hi,

My e89 adaptive suspension has failed due to a badly leaking front shock that has also damaged the brake hose. The extended warranty is picking up the cost, thankfully, but it occurs to me that perhaps these parts become softer over time and if so perhaps they should be replaced in pairs like tyres or brake components. I suppose if one has failed the other will go soon too.

I'm not sure why a leaking shock (empty?) would damage the hose. I assume mechanical pinching

Thoughts? If replace in pairs is recommended will the warranty insurer do that automatically?

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hopz121
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Should (warranty) replace shocks in pairs?

Post by hopz121 » Fri May 12, 2017 8:46 am

Should be replaced in pairs ideally.

Put it this way, if you were a paying customer BMW would be suggesting that they change both at the same time and be giving you all the reasons under the sun why you should be.

I would push to have both of them replaced if you can :thumbsup:
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R.E92
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Should (warranty) replace shocks in pairs?

Post by R.E92 » Fri May 12, 2017 8:53 am

Depends on mileage. I doubt you could make a good enough case to justify replacing another £500 (assuming it's adaptive) strut at someone else's cost just because the other one is a little worn!

It's a different story when the shock only cost £30 :D

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Should (warranty) replace shocks in pairs?

Post by Ewazix » Fri May 12, 2017 9:23 am

hopz121 wrote: Fri May 12, 2017 8:46 am Should be replaced in pairs ideally.

Put it this way, if you were a paying customer BMW would be suggesting that they change both at the same time and be giving you all the reasons under the sun why you should be.

I would push to have both of them replaced if you can :thumbsup:
Can't disagree with this, but having had the same conversation with BMW Mini about a defective (non-adaptive) shock at 5k miles they pointed out that the other side was tested and was perfect so wouldn't replace it. To be fair if I was paying the bill I wouldn't have either, but worth a try :thumbsup:
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spanna2000
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Should (warranty) replace shocks in pairs?

Post by spanna2000 » Sat May 13, 2017 9:27 am

Thanks. I think I'll have to pay for the 2nd if I want it done. I've been told it's no way a safety issue and the other shock is in good condition I'll see how it drives and decide. I'll keep the warranty up as I suppose the other will go soon. I've got a new loan car but I am missing my z already, it's going to be a long wait. I forecast great summer weather for the next two weeks followed by monsoon season in three.

BMW are pushing new brake discs at me. That seems pretty typical too.

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