whats this?

[Mind Bomb]

hi all
i replaced the front shocks on my car yesterday and noticed a little tube had come out of a silver metal shroud. The tube/shroud was just behind the brake disc and a little below the bottom of the sway bar.

the silver part and attached tube can be seen in this photo, can anyone tell me what it actually is?

 

[mr nurburgring]

That’s for the self leveling device for the headlights. You should have disconnected it before removing the shocks, the metal tube has pulled out of the sensor when you pushed down on the arm., it may be possible to push it back together but if it’s broken they are about 60 bills from bmw.

 

[DOOM]

I, too, forgot to disconnect it while changing front suspension and couldn't push it back in.
Not even aften lubing the crap out of it.
Buy it new, I bought from here; https://www.ebay.com/itm/Genuine-BMW-E46-Headlight-Level-Sensor-Connector-Rod-Front-OEM-37146766778/192288381388?ssPageName=STRK%3AMEBIDX%3AIT&_trksid=p2057872.m2749.l2649

 

[buzyg]

That’s for the self leveling device for the headlights. You should have disconnected it before removing the shocks, the metal tube has pulled out of the sensor when you pushed down on the arm., it may be possible to push it back together but if it’s broken they are about 60 bills from bmw.

Every day an education here.

 

[Mind Bomb]

thanks guys. I was a little nervous it might be something to do withg the brakes - although i couldnt see how.

 

[DOOM]

Actually, when you turn the key in P2 and turn the lights on you can hear the lights mechanism start working (going up and down that is until levelling) but nothing happening.

 

[Mind Bomb]

Actually, when you turn the key in P2 and turn the lights on you can hear the lights mechanism start working (going up and down that is until levelling) but nothing happening.

thats a good point, its easily tested i guess.
MOT tomorrow so i'll mention it to garage.

 

[mr nurburgring]

If it’s not connected the lights will default to pointing down. Mot fail.