Rear shock mounts crack and can tear the body
Added · Updated
What causes "Rear shock mounts crack and can tear the body" on the BMW 3 Series (E36, 1992-1999), and how is it fixed?
The rubber rear shock mounts crack. Fix: Replace the mounts with the redesigned E46 M3 / convertible mount and add the Z3-era top support plate.
Symptoms
A clunk from the rear over bumps.
Cause
The rubber rear shock mounts crack. If they are left alone, the load can tear the sheet metal at the top of the wheel well.
Fix (summary)
Replace the mounts with the redesigned E46 M3 / convertible mount and add the Z3-era top support plate. If the metal has already torn, weld in BMW's repair panels or an aftermarket reinforcement kit.
Related parts
- E46 M3 / E46 convertible rear shock mount (BMW 33526754096)
- Z3-era rear shock mount top support plate (BMW 51718413359)
- E36 rear shock tower weld-in repair panels (BMW 41148169027 L / 41148169028 R)
Related build entries
Other E36 problems
- Cooling system plastics fail with age (pump impeller, tanks, thermostat housing)
- Rear subframe bushings wear, then mounts crack
- Power window regulators wear and jam
- Recall 98V-178: heater core end piece can split if the engine overheats
- Recall 97V-131: throttle or cruise cable bushing can break and hold the throttle open
- Recall 96V-110: driver airbag contact ring tab can break (1992)
More for this car
- All BMW 3 Series (E36, 1992-1999) fitment answers · E36 common problems
- Newsletter archive: past issues with every new and corrected entry
Sources
- Replacing and reinforcing rear shock mounts (E30/E36) — Pelican Parts (parts retailer) (vendor article; read 2026-10-26; full page read)
Summaries are in our own words. Not repair instructions; consult the factory service manual.
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