The front thrust rod bushings—also referred to as tension strut bushings—are known to fail occasionally. The oil-filled rubber mounts weaken and crack over time, causing a mushy road feel and shuddering in the steering wheel when going over bumps. These worn bushings should be replaced.
Car Problem Reports
BMW 530i Front Tension Strut Bushings May Fail
BMW 530i Problem
12 Reports
Model Years Affected: 1994, 1995, 2001, 2002, 2003
Average Mileage: 116,266 mi (60,000 mi - 155,000 mi)
Verified
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Visitor, 2003 BMW 530i, 145,000 mi
When braking it felt like the brakes were pumping similiar to the anti-lock brake function. Repair was done at a dealer, $900.
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Visitor, 2003 BMW 530i, 103,000 mi
trust rod bushings worn,noise from the front end over bumps
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dusty b, 2003 BMW 530i, 96,000 mi
RookieWhen driving over small pot holes the steering wheel shakes, when windows are down you can hear slight hollow noise coming from the front end. After talking to BMW techs found that upper front upper support or thrust arm bushings left & right sides were shot. Purchased new set BMW #31 12 9 068 753 bushings, but after further thought elected to upgrade new arms with Powerflex urethane bushings with lifetime warranty instead. I could of replaced the bushings with Powrflex urethane bushings only, but with the ball joint having almost a 100k it was obvious to go with the new arm, ball joint & Powerflex set up. This upgrade should last the life of the car and provide better handling, braking, with low vibration over factory bushings. Was told by two BMW techs that the 03 BMW 530i upper bushings wear out prematurely. I believe this is the right way to go to remove the hazard of future front end geometry failure. Dusty
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Visitor, 2001 BMW 530i, 155,000 mi
Feel the front and rear of my vehicle loose, had the dealership replace what they said was the problem (sway bar links). Just got my tires rotated and was told that my sway bar links need replacing again.
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Visitor, 1994 BMW 530i, 138,600 mi
Rough ride and noise in the front end. Mechanic says it needs struts.
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Visitor, 2003 BMW 530i, 60,000 mi
thrust arm bushings. Vibrates at slow speed going over slight bumps
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