BMW E46 3 Series Front Hood Gas Strut Lift Support Set – Bonnet Damper for 323i 325i 328i 330i 325Ci 330Ci | Replaces Part No. 51238202688

$74.50
Anbieter BAVMODS®
Beschreibung

Restore reliable hood support while refreshing the appearance of your BMW E46 engine bay with this carbon fiber-style front hood gas strut. Designed as an aftermarket replacement for select BMW E46 3 Series vehicles using original part number 51238202688, this gas-charged lift support assists with raising and holding the engine hood in its open position.

The BMW E46 uses pressurized gas springs to support the engine hood during routine maintenance, inspections, and repairs. These components provide controlled resistance as the hood moves, allowing access to the engine compartment without the need for a separate manual prop rod.

Over time, original hood gas struts can lose pressure as their internal seals and components age. A weakened gas strut may cause the hood to feel unusually heavy, fail to remain fully open, or gradually lower without warning. This can create inconvenience and a potential safety hazard while working inside the engine compartment.

This replacement hood damper is intended to restore the lifting assistance and support provided by the original E46 hood gas spring. Its carbon fiber-style exterior provides a performance-inspired visual detail while maintaining the conventional gas strut function.

The original BMW reference 51238202688 is associated with a nominal 580 N hood gas spring specification and is used across multiple non-M E46 body styles. Correct replacement requires matching the original strut's extended length, force rating, end fittings, and mounting geometry.

Whether restoring an aging BMW E46, replacing weak hood supports, or updating the appearance of the engine bay, this front hood gas strut provides a functional replacement for vehicles equipped with the corresponding original support.

Key Features

  • BMW E46-Specific Application: Intended for compatible non-M E46 3 Series models using the corresponding original hood gas spring.

  • OEM Reference 51238202688: Designed as an aftermarket replacement for the specified BMW hood lift support.

  • Gas-Pressurized Operation: Uses internal gas pressure to assist with supporting the engine hood.

  • Carbon Fiber-Style Appearance: Features the advertised carbon fiber-inspired exterior styling, subject to confirmation of the actual product finish.

  • Helps Restore Hood Support: Suitable for replacing original gas struts that have lost lifting force.

  • Supports Safer Engine Bay Access: Helps hold the hood open during routine inspections and maintenance when correctly installed and functioning.

  • Factory-Style Mounting Concept: Intended to use the corresponding original hood gas strut mounting locations.

  • Left and Right Application: The referenced non-M E46 gas spring is used on both sides of the hood.

  • Mechanical Replacement: Does not require electronic coding or software programming.

  • Practical Maintenance Upgrade: Helps restore normal hood opening and support characteristics.

Benefits of Replacing Worn Hood Gas Struts

Restores Hood Holding Force

As hood gas struts age, they can gradually lose internal pressure.

Replacing a weakened strut with a correctly specified unit helps restore the support needed to keep the hood open.

Improves Engine Bay Access

A properly functioning hood support allows easier access during oil checks, fluid inspections, battery-related maintenance, and engine compartment repairs.

Reduces the Risk of Unexpected Hood Closure

A weak hood gas spring can allow the hood to lower unexpectedly.

Replacing worn supports helps reduce this risk, although the hood must always be independently supported while the gas struts are being serviced.

Refreshes the Engine Bay Appearance

The advertised carbon fiber-style finish offers a sport-inspired appearance compared with a conventional plain black gas strut.

This is an aesthetic feature and should not be interpreted as a verified structural carbon fiber construction.

Maintains Factory-Style Functionality

The replacement is intended to retain the original gas-assisted hood opening and support arrangement without modifying the vehicle's hood hinges.

FITMENT

BMW E46 3 Series Sedan

  • BMW 320i – 2001–2005, selected applications

  • BMW 323i – 1999–2000

  • BMW 325i – 2001–2005

  • BMW 325xi – 2001–2005

  • BMW 328i – 1999–2000

  • BMW 330i – 2001–2005

  • BMW 330xi – 2001–2005

BMW E46 3 Series Coupe

  • BMW 323Ci – 2000

  • BMW 325Ci – 2001–2006

  • BMW 328Ci – 2000

  • BMW 330Ci – 2001–2006

BMW E46 3 Series Convertible

  • BMW 323Ci Convertible – 2000

  • BMW 325Ci Convertible – 2001–2006

  • BMW 330Ci Convertible – 2001–2006

BMW E46 3 Series Touring / Wagon

  • BMW 323i Touring – Select applications

  • BMW 325i Touring – 2001–2005

  • BMW 325xi Touring – 2001–2005

  • BMW 330i Touring – Select applications

  • BMW 330xi Touring – Select applications

Additional International-Market E46 Models

Certain 316i, 318i, 318Ci, 320Ci, 318d, 320d, 330d, and related diesel or four-cylinder E46 models may use the same hood gas spring reference.

Confirm compatibility using the original part number and the vehicle's production information.

BMW E46 M3 – Not Confirmed for This Reference

  • BMW M3 Coupe – 2001–2006

  • BMW M3 Convertible – 2001–2006

Important: The E46 M3 uses a separately cataloged hood gas spring, BMW reference 51237893236, with a nominal force of approximately 380 N.

The standard E46 gas spring reference 51238202688 is commonly specified at approximately 580 N.

Because these specifications differ, the 51238202688 replacement should not be advertised as directly compatible with the E46 M3 unless the actual aftermarket component has been independently verified for that application.

Engine Compatibility

Hood gas strut fitment is determined primarily by the vehicle's hood, hinge arrangement, mounting points, and original gas spring specifications rather than engine displacement.

M52TU Inline-Six

  • BMW 323i / 323Ci – 2.5L

  • BMW 328i / 328Ci – 2.8L

M54 Inline-Six

  • BMW 320i – Selected 2.2L applications

  • BMW 325i / 325Ci / 325xi – 2.5L

  • BMW 330i / 330Ci / 330xi – 3.0L

Additional E46 Engines

Selected M43, N42, N46, M47, and M57-powered E46 vehicles may use the corresponding hood support configuration.

S54 Inline-Six

The E46 M3 S54 application uses a different original hood gas spring reference and is not guaranteed compatible with this product.

Engine compatibility alone does not establish fitment. Confirm the original gas spring part number before ordering.

OEM Replacement Part Number

Primary BMW Reference

  • 51238202688

  • 51 23 8 202 688

  • 51-23-8-202-688

Separate E46 M3 Reference – Not Interchangeable Without Verification

  • 51237893236

  • 51 23 7 893 236

The M3 reference is provided to prevent incorrect ordering. It is not an additional replacement reference for the advertised 51238202688 gas spring.

Product Specifications

  • Product Type: Front Hood Gas Strut / Bonnet Lift Support

  • Vehicle Manufacturer: BMW

  • Vehicle Platform: E46 3 Series

  • Primary OEM Reference: 51238202688

  • Installation Location: Front Engine Hood

  • Compatible Positions: Left and Right, on applicable non-M E46 models

  • Operating Mechanism: Gas-Pressurized Lift Support

  • Nominal OE-Equivalent Extension Force: Approximately 580 N

  • Nominal OE-Equivalent Extended Length: Approximately 316 mm

  • Nominal OE-Equivalent Stroke: Approximately 120 mm, depending on manufacturer

  • Advertised Appearance: Carbon Fiber Style

  • Actual Construction Material: Supplier Verification Required

  • Carbon Fiber Construction: Not Independently Verified

  • Mounting Configuration: Original-Style Hood Gas Spring End Connections

  • Installation Type: Mechanical Replacement

  • Electronic Programming: Not Required

  • Primary Function: Engine Hood Lifting Assistance and Open-Position Support

  • Product Category: Aftermarket Hood Lift Support / Exterior Body Hardware

Important Specification Note: The 580 N force, 316 mm length, and 120 mm stroke are documented specifications for comparable 51238202688 replacement gas springs. Confirm that the actual carbon fiber-style product matches these values before publishing them as guaranteed specifications.

Package Contents: Confirm whether the actual BAVMODS® SKU contains one hood gas strut or a complete two-piece set.

The BMW E46 normally uses two front hood gas struts. Replacing both together is generally recommended to maintain balanced support.

Installation Instructions

  1. Park the vehicle on a level surface.

  2. Switch off the engine and engage the parking brake.

  3. Open the hood carefully.

  4. Secure the hood with an independent, stable support before removing either gas strut.

  5. Never rely on a weak or partially disconnected gas strut to hold the hood open.

  6. Identify the left and right hood gas struts.

  7. Inspect the original mounting points and ball studs.

  8. Confirm the replacement gas strut matches the original component.

  9. Compare the extended length, end fittings, and force specification.

  10. Locate the retaining clips on the original gas strut connections.

  11. Use an appropriate small tool to release the retaining clip as specified by the fitting design.

  12. Do not completely remove the retaining clip unless necessary.

  13. Carefully disconnect one end of the original gas strut.

  14. Support the gas strut while disconnecting its opposite end.

  15. Remove the original component.

  16. Inspect the mounting studs for wear, looseness, or damage.

  17. Confirm that the replacement end fittings match the factory mounting points.

  18. Position the new gas strut in the correct orientation.

  19. Attach the first end to its mounting point.

  20. Secure the opposite end to the corresponding mounting point.

  21. Confirm that both retaining clips are fully engaged.

  22. Check that the gas strut cannot detach from the mounting studs during normal movement.

  23. Repeat the procedure on the opposite side if replacing both supports.

  24. Confirm that the hood remains independently supported until both gas struts are securely installed.

  25. Carefully remove the temporary hood support.

  26. Slowly test the hood's movement.

  27. Confirm that the hood opens and remains in its intended position.

  28. Check for binding, unusual resistance, or interference.

  29. Verify that the hood closes without excessive force.

  30. Inspect the gas strut connections once more before returning the vehicle to normal use.

Installation Warning: Hood gas struts are pressurized components. Do not puncture, heat, cut, bend, or attempt to disassemble the cylinder.

Compatibility Notes

  • BMW E46 Platform: Intended for the corresponding E46 hood gas spring configuration.

  • OEM Reference 51238202688: The primary original equipment reference for this replacement.

  • Non-M E46 Applications: Commonly used across compatible standard E46 3 Series models.

  • E46 M3 Exclusion: The M3 uses a separately cataloged gas spring and requires different fitment verification.

  • E46 M3 OEM Reference: BMW part number 51237893236 is associated with the M3 hood support.

  • Different Force Ratings: The standard E46 reference is approximately 580 N, while the M3 reference is approximately 380 N.

  • Force Rating Is Critical: Incorrect gas spring force can cause poor hood support or excessive loading of mounting components.

  • BMW 323i: Applicable original-style hood gas spring applications are documented.

  • BMW 323Ci: Compatible non-M E46 Coupe applications are documented.

  • BMW 325i: Compatible E46 Sedan applications are documented.

  • BMW 325Ci: Compatible E46 Coupe and Convertible applications are documented.

  • BMW 325xi: Compatible all-wheel-drive E46 applications are documented.

  • BMW 328i: Compatible earlier E46 Sedan applications are documented.

  • BMW 328Ci: Compatible earlier E46 Coupe applications are documented.

  • BMW 330i: Compatible E46 Sedan applications are documented.

  • BMW 330Ci: Compatible E46 Coupe and Convertible applications are documented.

  • BMW 330xi: Compatible all-wheel-drive E46 applications are documented.

  • Model-Year Clarification: The standard E46 gas spring application begins before 2000 on certain models.

  • E46 Sedan Production: North American Sedan applications generally extend through the 2005 model year.

  • E46 Coupe Production: Compatible non-M Coupe applications extend through 2006.

  • E46 Convertible Production: Compatible non-M Convertible applications extend through 2006.

  • E46 Touring: Selected Touring applications are compatible, subject to original part verification.

  • E46 Compact: Do not guarantee Compact fitment without verifying the original hood gas spring reference.

  • Left and Right Positions: The standard E46 gas spring reference is used on both sides of the hood.

  • Two Gas Struts Per Vehicle: Most compatible E46 models use two hood lift supports.

  • Replace in Pairs: Replacing both worn gas struts is recommended for balanced hood support.

  • Single Versus Pair Packaging: Confirm the actual number of gas struts included in the product.

  • Carbon Fiber Appearance: The advertised carbon fiber styling may be a decorative wrap, coating, or exterior sleeve.

  • Actual Carbon Fiber Material: Do not claim genuine structural carbon fiber construction without supplier confirmation.

  • Carbon Steel Construction: Some aftermarket listings use carbon steel cylinders. This is not equivalent to carbon fiber construction.

  • Original Mounting Points: The replacement should match the vehicle's factory mounting geometry.

  • Ball Socket Connections: Confirm the exact end-fitting style and dimensions before installation.

  • Retaining Clips: Clips must engage securely to prevent the gas strut from detaching.

  • Mounting Stud Condition: Worn or damaged ball studs can affect fitment and should be replaced when necessary.

  • Extended Length: The replacement must match the required hood opening geometry.

  • Compressed Length: Incorrect compressed length may interfere with proper hood closure.

  • Gas Pressure: Excessive force can stress the hood or hinge mounting points.

  • Weak Original Struts: Loss of gas pressure can cause the hood to lower unexpectedly.

  • Temperature Sensitivity: Gas spring performance can vary with temperature.

  • Modified Hoods: Aftermarket fiberglass, aluminum, and carbon fiber hoods may require different gas spring forces.

  • Lightweight Carbon Fiber Hoods: The original gas spring force may be excessive for significantly lighter aftermarket hoods.

  • Hood Hinge Condition: Damaged or misaligned hinges should be repaired separately.

  • Accident Damage: Prior front-end collision damage can affect hood mounting geometry.

  • No Drilling Normally Required: Correctly matched replacement gas struts use the original mounting points.

  • No Electronic Coding: This is a mechanical support component.

  • Not a Suspension Shock Absorber: This product supports the hood and does not replace a vehicle suspension damper.

  • Not a Trunk Lift Support: Front hood and rear trunk gas struts use different specifications.

  • Not a Complete Hood Hinge Kit: Hood hinges and mounting brackets are not included unless confirmed.

  • Safety During Replacement: Always support the hood independently when removing the original gas struts.

  • Not Genuine BMW: This is an aftermarket replacement unless its manufacturer and origin are independently verified.

  • VIN and Part Verification: Confirm the original BMW part number, mounting geometry, and gas spring force before ordering.

Restore Reliable Hood Support with Performance-Inspired Styling

A properly functioning hood gas strut is an important component of the BMW E46 engine compartment. It provides the support needed for convenient access during routine maintenance and helps prevent unexpected hood movement.

This carbon fiber-style replacement hood damper combines the functional purpose of the original gas-pressurized support with a sport-inspired exterior appearance. When matched to the correct BMW part number and installed properly, it helps restore normal hood operation and support.

For owners maintaining or restoring a compatible non-M BMW E46 3 Series, this replacement hood gas strut offers a practical way to address weakened original supports while refreshing the appearance of the engine bay.
Fitment

Please refer to the “Fitment” section in the product description for compatibility details.
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