31 00... Instructions (damage to suspension)

2013 Mini Cooper Countryman, Standard TransSECTION 31 00... Instructions (damage to suspension)
WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2010 BMW 550i, 2009 BMW 550i, and 2008 BMW 550i. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Substandard roadholding, atypical noises, tires worn on one side, camber and toe-in values which deviate from nominal value and mis-shaped components are all indicators of damage to the suspension caused by road traffic accidents or similar impacts.

To repair vehicle correctly, depending on condition of vehicle, perform the following troubleshooting procedure:

Troubleshooting 

TROUBLESHOOTING CHART

Vehicle condition Possible cause Remedy
1 Camber inside/toe-in outside the nominal value, adjustment of track alignment possible
  1. Screw connection not OK
  1. Check screw connections: Tie rod end  to swivel bearing Tie rod  to power steering gear Power steering gear  to front axle carrier
 
  1. b) Tie rod or journal of tie rod end is deformed
  1. b) Replace tie rod, tension strut and swivel bearing 
    IMPORTANT: If the journal of the tie rod end is deformed, the power steering gear  must also be replaced
 
  1. c) One or both tension struts is/are deformed
  1. c) Replace tension strut and swivel bearing 
 
  1. d) Control arm deformed
  1. d) Replace control arm, tension strut and swivel bearing 
2 Camber inside/toe-in outside the nominal value, adjustment of track alignment possible Powerful forces acting on steering/front axle components Replace tie rods 
Replace swivel bearing 
Replace power steering gear 
Replace tension strut 
Replace control arms 
3 Camber/toe-in outside the nominal value, adjustment of track alignment not possible Powerful forces acting on front axle with distortion of:  
 
  1. Screw connections
  2. Front axle support
  3. See Pt. 1b) to d)

  1. f) Spring strut/piston rod
  1. Check screw connections, replace the relevant part if necessary
  2. Replace front axle carrier 
  3. See Pt. 1b) to d)
  4. Replace spring strut 
RENDER: 1.0x

NO RELATED

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When to See a Mechanic

Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:

  • You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
  • Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
  • The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
  • You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
  • You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.