New System Description & E83 Chassis Dynamics

New System Description & E83 Chassis Dynamics

Chassis Dynamics
Model: (E83) X3 SAV
Production: Start of Production MY 2004

This information explains the following sub-systems:

- Visually identify the suspension components that are unique to the (E83) X3 SAV.
- Describes the steering system mechanical/hydraulic components
- How to access, remove and install the spare wheel
- Explanation of how to initialize Tire Monitoring System (RDW).


E83 Chassis Dynamics
As with all BMW vehicles, the X3 chassis and suspension was designed with particular emphasis on driving pleasure, dynamics and favorable handling.
The main aim in the full development of the X3 was to achieve:

- Agility on the road
- Driving dynamics
- Stability
- Traction

The front axle is a double joint spring strut axle with tension arms and a rack and pinion steering system with hydraulic power assist. Conventional rack and pinion power steering is installed to the E83 as standard. Servotronic is available as an option. Spring struts with coil springs and twin tube gas-pressure dampers are used on the front axle. It is similar the front axle of the E53.
The rear axle design is based on the E46 (3 series)/16 with barrel springs and separate twin tube gas-pressure dampers.The brake system is a hydraulic dual-circuit brake system with front/rear split vacuum boost power assist and EBV. The parking brake actuating unit is located in the center console and is equipped with an automatic cable adjuster (ASZE) and a compensating element.
Several different wheel and tire combinations are available for the (E83) X3 SAV. The spare wheel (steel) is located in a special bracket under the luggage compartment floor in the rear. The tire deflation warning (RDW) is a standard feature on the (E83) X3 SAV.