A Guide to Front Suspension Strut Mounts for the 2006-2012 BMW E90 3-Series
Fix clunking noises and restore your BMW's sharp handling by choosing the right replacement strut mounts.
- For OEM quality without the dealer price, choose strut mounts from OE suppliers like Lemförder or Sachs.
- Avoid generic, low-cost strut mounts, as they are known to fail quickly and create noise issues on BMWs.
- Always replace strut mounts in pairs and get a wheel alignment immediately after the repair.
- Ensure you order the correct part for your car, as RWD and xDrive models use different front strut mounts.
Is Your BMW Making a Clunking Noise?
A common sign of a failing front strut mount on a 2006-2012 BMW 3-Series is noise from the front suspension. You might hear a clunk, pop, or thud, especially when going over bumps or turning at low speeds. Other symptoms include a steering wheel that feels loose or buzzes on rough roads, or a general feeling that the car wanders on the highway. A visual inspection might show cracked or sagging rubber on the top of the mount, visible in the engine bay.
🎬 Watch: See common symptoms of a failing strut mount.A Note on Vehicle Years
While this guide focuses on the E90 chassis (3-Series sedan) built from 2006-2011 in North America, the information applies to coupe (E92) and wagon (E91) models as well. The 330i model was only sold in North America for the 2006 model year. From 2007-2012, the primary models were the 328i and 335i. The suspension parts, including the strut mounts, are very similar across all non-M, rear-wheel-drive models of this generation.
Choosing the Right Aftermarket Strut Mount
When replacing strut mounts, you have a few levels of quality to choose from. For a BMW, using a low-quality part can ruin the driving experience. It is highly recommended to replace mounts whenever you replace your struts to save on labor costs.
Tier 1: OEM / OE Supplier
These are the companies that made the original parts for BMW. Buying these brands gives you the same quality as a part from the dealer, but without the high price. For the E90 3-Series, the primary OE suppliers for strut mounts are Lemförder and Sachs. Choosing one of these brands is the safest bet for restoring the original ride and handling.
🎬 Learn how to diagnose other front suspension clunks and noises.Tier 2: Quality Aftermarket
These brands produce high-quality parts that meet or exceed OEM specifications. They are a reliable choice if an OE supplier part is not available. Look for brands like Meyle (especially their 'HD' line) and Febi Bilstein. These are well-regarded in the BMW community.
Tier 3: Budget Brands
This category includes generic store brands or unknown online sellers. For a critical suspension component on a BMW, this is not the place to save money. Forum members frequently report that cheap, no-name mounts fail quickly, create loud noises, and make the car ride poorly. It is best to avoid these and stick with Tier 1 or Tier 2 brands.
Common Ordering Mistake
Rear-wheel-drive (RWD) and all-wheel-drive (xDrive) models use different front strut mounts. Be sure to order the correct part for your specific drivetrain. The main part numbers for RWD models are 31336760943 and 31306775098. The part number for xDrive models is often 31336775097. Always verify fitment before purchasing.
Cost of Replacing Strut Mounts (2006-2012 BMW 3-Series)
| Part Type | Cost per Pair (Parts Only) |
|---|---|
| New Genuine BMW | $200 - $280 |
| New Aftermarket (OE Supplier) | $100 - $160 |
| New Aftermarket (Quality) | $60 - $120 |
| Shop Labor | $250 - $450 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I replace strut mounts in pairs?
Yes, always. Suspension components should always be replaced in pairs (both front or both rear) to ensure even performance and handling. Replacing only one can cause unpredictable steering and uneven wear.
Do I need a wheel alignment after replacing strut mounts?
Yes. Replacing the strut mounts requires removing the entire strut assembly, which directly affects your car's alignment settings. A four-wheel alignment is necessary after the job is complete to ensure proper handling and prevent rapid tire wear.
Can I do this job myself?
This is a challenging job for a beginner. It requires removing the entire strut assembly and using a spring compressor to swap the mount. Spring compressors can be very dangerous if not used correctly. If you are not experienced with suspension work, it is best to leave this job to a professional mechanic.
🎬 See a full walkthrough of the front strut replacement process.What other parts should I replace at the same time?
It is best practice to replace the strut mounts whenever you are replacing the struts themselves. You should also inspect and consider replacing the strut bump stops, dust boots, and spring pads while everything is disassembled.
Helpful Videos
Technical Specifications
OEM Part Numbers: 31336760943 31306775098 31336775097 (for xDrive)
The front strut mount for the E90 3-Series is a rubber and metal component that includes an integrated bearing for steering pivot. It is secured to the chassis by three 13mm nuts.
The information in this article is provided for general reference and educational purposes only. Vehicle specifications, procedures, and part compatibility can vary by production date, trim level, and region. Always consult your vehicle's factory service manual and verify part numbers before purchasing or performing repairs. Safety-critical components such as airbags, seat belts, and braking systems should be installed by a qualified professional.
- BMW 330i:
- 🎬 Helpful Videos
- Is Your BMW Making a Clunking Noise?
- A Note on Vehicle Years
- Choosing the Right Aftermarket Strut Mount
- Tier 1: OEM / OE Supplier
- Tier 2: Quality Aftermarket
- Tier 3: Budget Brands
- Common Ordering Mistake
- Cost of Replacing Strut Mounts (2006-2012 BMW 3-Series)
- Frequently Asked Questions
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