2006 X5 3.0i 140K with oil at RF strut area...

[cn90]

Hi,

I need input...

2006 X5 3.0i 140K, car runs fine, no issues. Car always serviced by myself, never in the shop the last 7 yrs...

Washed the car 10 days ago, parked inside my garage.

Today, after I backed the car out of the house, noticed a small stain on garage floor, wiped it and smelled it, it is fresh oil, very much like engine oil.

Looked inside the RF tire area: some oil in the strut perch and the next coil above it.

Suspension is stock and car runs fine.

Is this oil leaking from the strut? Has anyone seen this before?

Thanks!

Photo showing oil stain on garage floor as well as RF strut area...

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[andrewwynn]

The shock should have hydraulic fluid in it. It should be distinctly clear vs. engine oil use a clean paper towel to soak up some to check for color.

[cn90]

For my E39 1998 528i, I did a front/rear suspension overhaul some 10 yrs ago, I am familiar with the job and the debate between Stock vs Bilstein (Touring vs HD)...

Looking at FCPEuro website:

1. How do I know I have standard or sport suspension (code for sport is S226A per FCPEuro)?

2. For those who have done this job, what is the ride like with:
- Sachs 290-240
- Bilstein Touring
- Bilstein HD

I will probably keep the stock spring (unless you guys tell me otherwise).
I will replace the strut bearing, seats etc.

[cn90]

I am looking at parts to replace at 140K, I need you guys' input...

For Sure will replace these parts (RED arrow):
- Strut (have not decided Sachs vs Bilstein yet)
- #1, #9, #10.

Questionable parts:
- #6, #7, coil spring, #11
- Any opinions re these parts: should I keep them or replace them?

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[StephenVA]

Personally I would replace everything except the spring as everything wears. The rubber bits wear, the steel parts get pitted and rusted, the cups and washers get wear, etc. Cheap insurance against "clunking" later. Ask me how I know.....

Oh, you DON"T to replace #5 the dust cover

[ajacks8]

I went from stock to Bilstein HD on the rear of my 3.0i and it was much firmer. Then, I needed them on my 4.8is when backordered for MONTHS, so I moved them over and rode new Bilstein tourings on the 3.0i. If you like stock feel, tourings maintained that very well. If you want more of a “truck” feel…go HD. I’m not sure exactly what difference in feeling would be on fronts…but thought I would share. Good luck!

[nick325xit 5spd]

Tourings are very nice in my experience.

While you're in there and need to do an alignment, make sure that you check everything else for wear.

[andrewwynn]

With spring pressure removed best bet for ball joints

[nick325xit 5spd]

Eh. The balljoints aren't under spring pressure. The strut holds the knuckle up while you get them out, unless things are so seized that you you need to put the knuckle in a press.