my BMW 5 Series F10/F11 (2010-2017) makes a clunking sound when going over bumps, what’s wrong?

Solution

1. Preparation

• Ensure the vehicle is parked on a flat surface and the engine is off.
• Gather tools and parts.
• Safety warning: Ensure the vehicle is secured with wheel chocks and jack stands before working underneath.

2. Remove Wheel

• Use a lug wrench to loosen the wheel bolts.
• Jack up the vehicle and support it with jack stands.
• Remove the wheel to access the suspension components.

3. Inspect and Replace Worn Components

• Control Arm Bushings:

  • Remove any bolts securing the control arm to the chassis and the wheel hub.
  • Replace the worn bushings with new ones, ensuring proper orientation.

• Strut and Spring Assembly:

  • If the strut is damaged, remove the strut assembly from the vehicle.
  • Compress the coil spring using a spring compressor and remove the top strut mount.
  • Replace the strut and reassemble in reverse order.

• Ball Joints:

  • If play is detected, remove the ball joint nut and disconnect it from the control arm.
  • Install the new ball joint and secure it with the appropriate torque specifications.

4. Reassemble and Reinstall Wheel

• Reattach the wheel, tightening the lug bolts in a star pattern to the manufacturer's torque specifications.
• Lower the vehicle back to the ground.