**Updated tension strut for newer model X3's, will also required updated ball joint** Your BMW's tension struts are an integral part of the front suspension. This control arm is essentially tasked with locating the front suspension. The most common failure of this control arm occurs when the inner bushing fails which causes play in the front suspension. The bushing can be replaced but it requires a bushing press with the correct adapters. More times than not it is simpler and easier to just replace the entire assembly with the bushing pre-pressed in. For vehicles built before 12/2006 that still have the original control arms installed will require updated ball joint, part number 31103438623. The newer tension struts have a thicker mounting area for the ball joint compared to the originals making the original style ball joints too small.