phlfly

how many of you had already replaced part number #11, the bushing 12 is leaked hydraulic fluid. I was thinking to replace only bushing 12 but I'm afraid I will destroy ball join at the wheel.

rctmthouse

check the DIY forum, there should be at least 3 threads on this topic and yes, you should go ahead and replace the entire part instead of just the bushings unless you have the press at home. Some members bought aftermarket and have no problem so far. It is a DIY project though.

525iEnjoy

+1 If your going to do one have them all done. DIY forums though

jgt

The bushing is rubber. It shouldn't be leaking anything ever.
Do you have active roll bars? Sounds like the hydraulic pump/lines for the ARS is leaking...

Replace the entire control arm if the bushing is shot chances are the ball joint is or will be messed up when you take out the arm.

AchtungE60

I've heard of so many people saying their bushings are filled with dydraulic fluid...im sorry, i've replaced many of these on E46, E39, E60 and E70 as well as the Z3 and I've seen "cracking" but never any fluid. I've cut them apart to find some sort of "fluid resevoir" only to fail. Did someone tell you they're leaking?....like some know it all mechanic? I have yet to find some bushings with leaks....I do wish I could find some nice orange polypropylene bushings like I found for the E46 and E39...I'd definitely get those. Although I will not be in need of a swap for about 4 years or so, I'd swap them out just because. You can just buy bushings for about $80 lemforder breand OEM and take the arm off and take it to a machine shop...maybe your local NAPA has one and they'll press for about $10 each....if not, replace the entire arm which includes the ball joint. Up to you, and obviously $ is a factor as well as how handy you are. I did a DIY on it.

phlfly

To answer above question, I had two E46 and both OEM BMW bushing were filled with hydraulic fluid. I got on lift in my friend garage and it'd for sure leaking from bushing, I was afraid it's active control sway bar. But fluid is red color where active control is use CF-11 which is almost clear color.