Control Arm One Time Use Bolts?

[schmidtp]

Hi All,

Replaced a bunch of suspension and steering parts a couple weeks ago and took it into a Firestone for an alignment and the tech told me the BMW specs he pulled up said he had to replace the rear bolts per BMW to perform the alignment. Is this correct? How should I address the shop if it's not since I have a lifetime alignment there.

I was planning on replacing control arms with the M3 upgrade and was wondering if I need all new hardware or not.

Thanks,
Patrick

[ShocknAwe]

Didn't know the eccentric bolts were stretch bolts. That doesn't make any sense.

[schmidtp]

I read on ECS the kit included all hardware that needed to be replaced and it didn't have the bolts included. I can call ahead of time and discuss with Firestone about this too, it was late on a Sunday and they were understaffed so who knows. Just wanted to see if anyone else has heard this.

[The Wind Breezes]

You want to know how to address it? First, it's probably not worth fighting about since that's sort of what you get for taking your car to a place like that.

Second, if you did want to make an issue then have him show you the "BMW specs" he pulled up. Should take no time at all. If they can't do it then remain polite but firm and make them pay. Whatever you do don't get angry or yell or they will make fun of you and go out of their way to not help.

[ShocknAwe]

Originally Posted by schmidtp

I read on ECS the kit included all hardware that needed to be replaced and it didn't have the bolts included. I can call ahead of time and discuss with Firestone about this too, it was late on a Sunday and they were understaffed so who knows. Just wanted to see if anyone else has heard this.

Rule of thumb is that the steel bolts are lifetime, aluminum stretch bolts are one time use. I'm not saying it's out of the question but bolts designed by BMW to be manipulated for alignments every 3-6 months being one time use is just batshit nuts.

[MightyMouseTech]

BMW instructions say only the nut needs replacement, not that anyone actually does that.

Except for the current X1 and X2. All rear alignment bolts (6 for toe, and complete eccentric bolt, washer and nut for camber) require replacement each time. Good times.

[schmidtp]

Originally Posted by MightyMouseTech

BMW instructions say only the nut needs replacement, not that anyone actually does that.

Except for the current X1 and X2. All rear alignment bolts (6 for toe, and complete eccentric bolt, washer and nut for camber) require replacement each time. Good times.

Super useful info. Thanks for the help and I'll just make sure to call ahead next time too.