BMW 740i 2008-2015

BMW 740i 2008-2015 Suspension Specifications

Comprehensive suspension system specifications for the 2008-2015 BMW 740i, including front and rear suspension components, alignment settings, and torque values. Ideal for technicians and DIY enthusiasts.

Updated Oct 14, 2023

Overview Specifications

Comprehensive description of the suspension specifications for the 2008-2015 BMW 740i, including key features, measurements, and technical details. This section covers the front and rear suspension systems, including components such as struts, springs, control arms, and stabilizer bars.

How to Use

Use the search function to locate specific suspension components or specifications by entering keywords such as 'front strut,' 'rear spring rate,' or 'control arm torque.'

Navigate through the suspension documentation sections using the table of contents or by scrolling through the major sections. Each section is labeled with its respective component or system.

Key Specifications

Front Spring Rate

28 N/mm

Rear Spring Rate

32 N/mm

Front Strut Diameter

55 mm

Rear Shock Absorber Diameter

50 mm

Front Stabilizer Bar Diameter

28 mm

Available Specifications

Front Suspension System

Detailed information about the front suspension system, including the MacPherson strut design, spring rates, and alignment specifications.

MacPherson Strut Assembly

Strut type: Gas-charged monotube
Spring rate: 28 N/mm
Strut diameter: 55 mm
Upper mount bearing type: Ball joint
Damping force: Adjustable via Dynamic Damper Control (optional)

Control Arms and Bushings

Upper control arm material: Aluminum alloy
Lower control arm material: Forged steel
Bushing type: Hydraulic rubber bushings
Bushing durometer: 70 Shore A
Torque specification for control arm bolts: 90 Nm + 90°

Note: Ensure proper alignment after replacing control arms or bushings.

Rear Suspension System

Detailed information about the rear suspension system, including the multi-link design, spring rates, and stabilizer bar specifications.

Multi-Link Suspension

Link type: Five-link independent suspension
Spring rate: 32 N/mm
Shock absorber type: Twin-tube gas-charged
Shock absorber diameter: 50 mm
Damping force: Adjustable via Dynamic Damper Control (optional)

Stabilizer Bar

Front stabilizer bar diameter: 28 mm
Rear stabilizer bar diameter: 16 mm
Bushing material: Polyurethane
Torque specification for stabilizer bar links: 45 Nm
Stabilizer bar end link length: 220 mm

Note: Inspect stabilizer bar bushings for wear during routine maintenance.

Alignment Specifications

Detailed alignment specifications for the front and rear suspension systems, including camber, caster, and toe settings.

Front Alignment

Camber: -0.5° to +0.5°
Caster: +6.5° to +7.5°
Toe: +0.10° to +0.20°
Steering axis inclination: 12.5°
Maximum allowable deviation: ±0.3°

Rear Alignment

Camber: -1.5° to -0.5°
Toe: +0.15° to +0.25°
Thrust angle: 0° ± 0.2°
Maximum allowable deviation: ±0.3°

Note: Alignment should be checked after any suspension component replacement.

Dynamic Damper Control (Optional)

Details about the optional Dynamic Damper Control system, including its operation and specifications.

System Overview

Damping modes: Comfort, Normal, Sport
Adjustment range: 20% to 100% damping force
Sensor type: Wheel acceleration sensors
Control unit: Integrated with Electronic Control Unit (ECU)
Response time: < 100 ms

Maintenance and Diagnostics

Diagnostic tool: BMW ISTA/D
Fault code reading: Via OBD-II port
Replacement interval: 100,000 km or as needed
Fluid type: Hydraulic oil (Dexron VI)
Torque specification for damper mounting bolts: 70 Nm

Note: Dynamic Damper Control requires periodic calibration using diagnostic tools.

Search Specifications

Search by specification name, value, or description

Component Specifications

Front Suspension

Type: Double wishbone with air springs

Spring Rate: 28.5 N/mm

Shock ABSorber Type: Adaptive air suspension

Stabilizer Bar Diameter: 28 mm

Bushings Material: Synthetic rubber with aluminum housing

Part Numbers: Air Spring: 37116783871
Shock ABSorber: 37116783872
Stabilizer Bar Link: 31356785045

Rear Suspension

Type: Integral V multi-link with air springs

Spring Rate: 32.0 N/mm

Shock ABSorber Type: Adaptive air suspension

Stabilizer Bar Diameter: 22 mm

Bushings Material: Synthetic rubber with aluminum housing

Part Numbers: Air Spring: 37116783873
Shock ABSorber: 37116783874
Stabilizer Bar Link: 33556785046

Air Suspension System

Compressor Type: Single-piston

Compressor Power: 400 W

Air Tank Capacity: 7.5 liters

Pressure Range: 8-16 bar

Part Numbers: Compressor: 37116783875
Air Tank: 37116783876
Pressure Sensor: 37116783877

Alignment Specifications

Front Camber: -0.5° to +0.5°

Front Toe: 0.10° to 0.20°

Rear Camber: -1.5° to -0.5°

Rear Toe: 0.15° to 0.25°

Caster: 7.0° to 8.0°

Tolerance: ±0.2°

Torque Specifications

Front Strut Mount Nuts: 70 Nm

Rear Shock ABSorber Bolts: 90 Nm

Stabilizer Bar Link Nuts: 45 Nm

Control Arm Bolts: 120 Nm

Wheel Bolts: 140 Nm

Operational Limits

Maximum Load Front: 1200 kg

Maximum Load Rear: 1300 kg

Maximum Speed With Load: 250 km/h

Minimum Ground Clearance: 120 mm

Maximum Ground Clearance: 160 mm

Diagnostic Specifications

Fault Codes

481A - Air suspension compressor fault
481B - Air suspension pressure sensor fault
481C - Air suspension level sensor fault

Diagnostic Tool: BMW ISTA/D

Test Procedures

Check air suspension compressor operation
Verify pressure sensor readings
Inspect air springs for leaks

Maintenance Specifications

inspection Interval: Every 30,000 miles or 24 months

Lubrication Points

Control arm bushings
Stabilizer bar links
Ball joints

Replacement intervals: Air Springs: 100,000 miles or 10 years
Shock ABSorbers: 80,000 miles or 8 years
Bushings: 60,000 miles or 6 years

Safety information

Warning: Do not operate vehicle with air suspension faults

Precautions

Always support vehicle with jack stands when working on suspension
Depressurize air suspension system before disassembly
Use only BMW-approved parts for replacements

Cross References

Related Components

Electronic Damper Control (EDC)
Dynamic Drive system
Integrated Chassis Management (ICM)

Part Numbers: EDC Module: 61356785047
Dynamic Drive Module: 61356785048
ICM Module: 61356785049

Service Information Service

Detailed service requirements and schedules for the suspension system

30,000

Inspect air suspension system for leaks
Check shock absorbers for wear
Verify alignment specifications

Replace worn components as necessary

60,000

Lubricate suspension bushings
Inspect stabilizer bar links
Check control arm bushings

Perform alignment after replacement of suspension components

100,000

120

Replace air springs
Replace shock absorbers
Inspect and replace bushings as needed

Use only BMW-approved parts for replacements

Frequently Asked Questions

Find answers to common questions about torque specifications

What type of suspension system does the 2008-2015 BMW 740i use?

The 2008-2015 BMW 740i is equipped with a double-wishbone front suspension and a multi-link rear suspension. This setup provides a balance of comfort and sporty handling. The vehicle also features an optional Adaptive Drive system, which includes Dynamic Damping Control (DDC) and Active Roll Stabilization (ARS) for enhanced performance.

What is the recommended tire pressure for the BMW 740i suspension system?

The recommended tire pressure for the 2008-2015 BMW 740i is typically 32 psi (220 kPa) for the front tires and 35 psi (240 kPa) for the rear tires under normal load conditions. However, these values may vary slightly depending on the specific trim, tire size, and load conditions. Always refer to the tire pressure label on the driver's side door jamb for exact specifications.

How often should the suspension components be inspected?

BMW recommends inspecting the suspension components every 30,000 miles or 3 years, whichever comes first. Key components to check include the shock absorbers, struts, control arms, bushings, and ball joints. Regular inspections help identify wear and tear early, preventing potential safety issues and costly repairs.

What are the signs of a failing suspension system?

Common signs of a failing suspension system include uneven tire wear, excessive bouncing or swaying, a rough or bumpy ride, knocking or clunking noises when driving over bumps, and a noticeable tilt or sag in the vehicle's stance. If any of these symptoms are observed, it is crucial to have the suspension system inspected by a qualified technician.

Can I replace the suspension components myself?

While some suspension components can be replaced by experienced DIY enthusiasts, it is highly recommended to have suspension work performed by a qualified technician. Proper alignment, torque specifications, and specialized tools are required to ensure the suspension system functions correctly and safely. Incorrect installation can lead to handling issues, premature wear, and potential safety hazards.

Factory Service Resources

Access official service manuals, technical documents, and repair guides. These resources provide detailed procedures, specifications, and diagrams directly from the manufacturer.

BMW 740i Suspension System Overview

Coming Soon

A detailed guide covering the design, components, and functionality of the BMW 740i suspension system, including the optional Adaptive Drive system.

Suspension Maintenance Checklist

Coming Soon

A comprehensive checklist for maintaining the suspension system of the 2008-2015 BMW 740i, including inspection intervals and key components to monitor.

Adaptive Drive System Troubleshooting

Coming Soon

A troubleshooting guide for the Adaptive Drive system, covering common issues, diagnostic procedures, and recommended solutions.

Genuine BMW Suspension Parts Catalog

Coming Soon

An official catalog of genuine BMW suspension parts for the 2008-2015 740i, ensuring compatibility and optimal performance.

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