DIY: Replacing Front Sway Bar End Links

Problem: As you drive around and drive in and out of driveways, especially while turning in and out of driveways you hear a knocking sound that sounds like metal to metal knocking sound. You can also hear this as you drive through a row of pot-holes and uneven road. The noise appears to come front under the cars front / under your feet.


Enjoy.

What you need:
- e70 x5 (my 2008 X5 E70 4.8i, N62 - about 115k miles, had noise for over last 40k), or a BMW X5
- basic tools to include: 17mm socket, 18mm socket, t-40 (solid core) star socket, 18mm open end wrench, few ratchets, breaker bar to remove wheel bolts with
- new replacement Front Sway Bar End Link (left and right)




- hydraulic jack

Additional work I’ve performed:
- N/A


Disclaimer: in no way does reading this post authorize you to do this repair yourself. You should always service your BMW at an authorized BMW Service point. Death and injury may/will result if you undertake this repair.



Things to know:
- correct torque setting for the nuts is 41 ft lbs (thanks MAK3N3)
- this project should take no more then about 30 minutes per side.
- there is no need for another jack to take load off the hub.



Parts:
- you can get your parts from import auto parts store that is local to you, ecstuning.com and the dealer. (about $150.00 total)


Work to be performed:

- park on level surface and engage HAND BREAK
- loosen front wheel bolts
- lift the car up and remove front wheel
- you will notice there is a link you are about to replace behind the break disk, it connects the arm holding the spindle to the anti sway bar





- using a big breaker bar with an 18mm socket on it loosen both the top and bottom nuts




- switch tools; using open end 18mm wrench and t-40 wrench, start removing the old nuts (hold the shaft in place with the t-40 and use open wrench to remove the nut; top and bottom)
- install new link in place where old one was and tighten the new nuts: notice the nut with the washer goes on top (arm holding the spindle)
- tighten to designated spec, or “tight as hell”




- reinstall the wheel
- repeat on the other side
- take the beast for a spin, and enjoy a quiet ride. No more knocking noise.


Happy Motoring