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  #1  
Old 09-05-2009, 06:06 PM
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Rear end sagging

I have noticed the rear end now sagging.

The negative camber is increasing on the rear and the headlights are pointing much higher than previously.

Have only 43k miles and it is a 2003 and so I would not expect much wear to the bushings, etc...but then again I have not taken things apart to inspect yet.

Has anyone experienced this same issue? If so how were you able to resolve it? Shocks?
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  #2  
Old 09-05-2009, 07:52 PM
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Do you have rear air suspension (self leveling)? Or is it steel springs...

If you can get some decent pics that might help too.
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Old 09-05-2009, 08:55 PM
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Quote:
Originally Posted by Weasel View Post
Do you have rear air suspension (self leveling)? Or is it steel springs...

If you can get some decent pics that might help too.
It has springs. No air suspension.

I'll take pics tomorrow. Need to get ready to take the wife out tonight for our anni.
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Old 09-05-2009, 08:57 PM
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Ah, have fun!
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You make something idiotproof, they'll make a better idiot


You think professional is expensive, just wait until you pay for amateur.

Never let your sense of morals prevent you from doing what is right.

Examine what is said, not who speaks.

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  #5  
Old 09-06-2009, 02:30 PM
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I used a level to show the negative camber better. More negative camber on the drivers side.

I'm thinking the shocks are loosing pressure.

BTW, I'm at the tire store getting new shoes put on as I do this post.









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Old 09-06-2009, 03:30 PM
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if your having new shoes put on it would be very wise to get an alignment. that should correct your alignment issues.
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Old 09-06-2009, 03:42 PM
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if your having new shoes put on it would be very wise to get an alignment. that should correct your alignment issues.
I wanted to get the sag corrected before aligning, otherwise I would be aligning again...
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  #8  
Old 09-06-2009, 06:25 PM
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I'd bring it to the dealers for the alignment, and tell them it looks to be sagging in the rear. They should check the ride height and check for any worn or damaged suspension components.

The rear tires are supposed to have about 1.5 degrees camber for handling reasons, but it is apparent from the tire wear that you have not only too much negative camber but the rear wheels are most likely toed out rather than in. I would definitely advise to go to the dealers for the alignment as they will know what to look for... firestone likely couldn't point at the lower ball joint for a $5 tip.
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You make something idiotproof, they'll make a better idiot


You think professional is expensive, just wait until you pay for amateur.

Never let your sense of morals prevent you from doing what is right.

Examine what is said, not who speaks.

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RIP 4.6is.....

2003 4.6is
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  #9  
Old 09-06-2009, 08:48 PM
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Quote:
Originally Posted by Weasel View Post
I'd bring it to the dealers for the alignment, and tell them it looks to be sagging in the rear. They should check the ride height and check for any worn or damaged suspension components.

The rear tires are supposed to have about 1.5 degrees camber for handling reasons, but it is apparent from the tire wear that you have not only too much negative camber but the rear wheels are most likely toed out rather than in. I would definitely advise to go to the dealers for the alignment as they will know what to look for... firestone likely couldn't point at the lower ball joint for a $5 tip.
Thanks for the input. I have a non-dealer mechanic that was a BMW service manager for 18 years before he went solo. I think I'll take it to him even though he's 30 miles away in San Ramon. I feel he will not take me to the cleaners.

Had my front axles replaced for $230ea when I brought the axles in to him. The stealership wanted $500+ea for the same job. I'm not impressed with the stealership in my area.

Always good to have a mechanic you can trust and is easy on the wallet.
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  #10  
Old 09-06-2009, 10:08 PM
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are alignments covered in bmw's original factory warranty?
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