2011 X5 M Pneumatic air spring replacement

[Logical]

I have a 2011 X5 M with 62K miles and I'm replacing the pneumatic air spring in the passenger side rear. I am performing this repair in my garage with an Arnott replacement air spring.

The nice lady at my local dealership gave the suspension diagram for the rear air spring systems. Ironically it has a note under the part number for the springs which says: "Important: Never lower vehicle with air discharged from air suspension bellows!" .

My questions are whether or not the $tealer needs to reprogram the Air Ride suspension in order for the computer to correctly pressurize the bag? Do I need to run the compressor by turning on the truck BEFORE I lower the truck to the ground per the note above?

[bmwx5er]

Here's DIY for the rear air bags that might help you:
http://www.bimmerfest.com/forums/sho...ghlight=arnott

Doesn't look like any programming is needed.

[Logical]

Thanks! Keeping my fingers crossed. I wonder why you have to jack it down slowly and fill as you lower the vehicle? Perhaps the truck is too heavy to the compressor to fill it when it's empty?

[F06msportmia]

Originally Posted by Logical

Thanks! Keeping my fingers crossed. I wonder why you have to jack it down slowly and fill as you lower the vehicle? Perhaps the truck is too heavy to the compressor to fill it when it's empty?

I just did this to both sides and used the Arnott airbags. Very easy DIY, only headache was the copper ring inside the airbag that tends to break. Need to be very careful I bought 3 additional just in case. If you have any questions pm me and I can give you my number.

[F06msportmia]

There is NO need to reprogram anything. Once you drop the car, connect the battery, and start the car the bags will fill.

My only recommendation is to do both of them. If you need the Arnott bags I may have a hook up locally.

Good luck!

[Logical]

So does the bag need to be filled while jacked up? Or will the compressor fill I when it's "empty" all four tires are on the ground while sagging?

[Logical]

Not a difficult job just needed to pull the rug out of the rear and have a friend help me notch it into the top. It does leak a little, I hear the pump activate when I start it. But the sagging is long gone and the ride is much better!