Originally Posted by mlt

Hi, I am new to this forum, so please forgive any potential transgressions. I have a '04 3.0i with about 66K miles on it. I just took it to the dealer for a brake fluid flush and while there, they recommended replacing the rear upper control arms followed by an alignment for around $1500.

I am having a hard time believing that the control arms really need to be replaced. This is my first BMW, but even my cars from Detroit were not wearing out suspension parts in 66K miles. I jacked up the rear end and tried to do the push/pull test on the wheel, but I did not feel any play. There is some minimal tread wear on the inside of the tires, but I have assumed this is due to the negative camber on the rear end and was probably normal. Otherwise it runs and drives fine with no clunks or noises from the rear end.

I welcome any comments or suggestions about other ways to confirm the upper control arms are actually worn and need replacement. Thanks in advance.