Photo shown for illustration; shade and shape may differ slightly.
MTS Technik Sport Shock Absorber - BMW 5 Series (E34) - MTSBM0043F
MTS Technik sport dampers control the movement of the sprung mass. The valving is built for performance, which means faster rebound and tighter control of compression. They work as a straight upgrade over tired factory dampers on standard springs, or together with lowering springs as a complete kit.
These dampers are made for a BMW.
Technical specifications
- Fitting axle: Front
Technical notes
- Without NIVO.
- Not compatible with 4x4 models.
- The dampers are made for use with lowering springs only. Fitting them with standard-height factory springs is wrong.
- Not compatible with cars that have automatic or electronic damping control.
Vehicle compatibility
| Model | Engine | Years |
|---|---|---|
| BMW 5 (E34) | 540 i V8 (286 hp) | 06/87 - 12/95 |
| BMW 5 (E34) | M5 (340 hp) | 06/87 - 12/95 |
| BMW 5 (E34) | M5 (315 hp) | 06/87 - 12/95 |
| BMW 5 (E34) | 535 i (211 hp) | 06/87 - 12/95 |
| BMW 5 (E34) | 530 i V8 (218 hp) | 06/87 - 12/95 |
| BMW 5 (E34) | 530 i (188 hp) | 06/87 - 12/95 |
| BMW 5 (E34) | 525 tds (143 hp) | 06/87 - 12/95 |
| BMW 5 (E34) | 525 td (115 hp) | 06/87 - 12/95 |
| BMW 5 (E34) | 525 i 24V (192 hp) | 06/87 - 12/95 |
| BMW 5 (E34) | 525 i (170 hp) | 06/87 - 12/95 |
| BMW 5 (E34) | 524 td (115 hp) | 06/87 - 12/95 |
| BMW 5 (E34) | 520 i 24V (150 hp) | 06/87 - 12/95 |
| BMW 5 (E34) | 520 i (129 hp) | 06/87 - 12/95 |
| BMW 5 (E34) | 518 i (115 hp) | 06/87 - 12/95 |
| BMW 5 (E34) | 518 i (113 hp) | 06/87 - 12/95 |
| BMW 5 Touring (E34) | 518 i (115 hp) | 07/91 - 07/96 |
| BMW 5 Touring (E34) | 518 i (113 hp) | 07/91 - 07/96 |
| BMW 5 Touring (E34) | 518 g (101 hp) | 07/91 - 07/96 |
| BMW 5 Touring (E34) | M5 (340 hp) | 07/91 - 07/96 |
| BMW 5 Touring (E34) | 540 i (286 hp) | 07/91 - 07/96 |
| BMW 5 Touring (E34) | 530 i (218 hp) | 07/91 - 07/96 |
| BMW 5 Touring (E34) | 525 tds (143 hp) | 07/91 - 07/96 |
| BMW 5 Touring (E34) | 525 td (115 hp) | 07/91 - 07/96 |
| BMW 5 Touring (E34) | 525 i (192 hp) | 07/91 - 07/96 |
| BMW 5 Touring (E34) | 520 i (150 hp) | 07/91 - 07/96 |
Frequently asked questions
What does a sport damper do that a standard one does not?
It controls the spring far faster, which limits body movement in sudden manoeuvres.
Does it lower the ride height?
No. Ride height comes from the spring. The damper only decides how the car absorbs impacts.
Do they work with standard springs?
Yes. The car will not sit lower, but it will be much firmer through corners.
Can I fit them on the front only?
Technically yes, but the balance of the car suffers badly. Replace them on both axles.
Why are the rods thicker?
Oversized rods take the higher side loads that come with hard driving.
Are they protected against rust?
Yes, the outer body carries an automotive-grade anti-corrosion treatment.
Are they compatible with electronic sensors?
Only the specific plug-and-play versions. Otherwise you need delete kits.
Do they need priming before fitting?
Yes, and it is not optional. Pump the rod by hand 3-4 times before fitting to get the air out of the oil.
Can I tighten them with an impact gun?
Never. An impact gun on the top nut regularly shears the thread off the rod.
What is bottoming out?
Hitting the end of the travel. Short-rod MTS sport dampers prevent it when used with lowering springs.
When should they be replaced?
When you see oil leaking, scoring on the rod, or the car bounces more than twice when you push down on it.
Will I feel tram lines more?
Yes. The unit is firmer in fast compression.
Do they need new top mounts?
Fitting new top mounts with new dampers is standard practice.
Do they affect the toe angle?
Any time the axle comes apart, the toe needs checking on a 3D aligner.
Are they good for gravel or rally?
They are built for tarmac, not for the impacts of a gravel rally.
Is there a warranty?
The statutory commercial warranty, void if an impact gun was used or the damage comes from incorrect fitting.
Are they only sold in pairs?
Most MTS rear dampers can be ordered singly, but they are fitted as a pair on the axle.
What oil is inside?
An oil whose viscosity changes little with temperature, gas pressurised for consistency.
Is dust protection included?
Usually you reuse the original dust kit or buy a new one.
Why do they stay flatter under braking?
Firmer rebound stops the rear axle lifting when weight is thrown forward under hard braking.