BMW 850 E31 31311138553 Suspension Set Damper Springs
For the BMW 850i / 850Ci (E31), the part number 31311138553 refers specifically to the Left Front Spring Strut (the housing and damper assembly). While sometimes colloquially called a “set” in retail listings, this individual OEM part number is for the driver-side assembly only.
To achieve a full suspension overhaul—including both dampers and springs—you typically have to combine multiple part numbers or opt for a pre-bundled aftermarket kit.
1. Component Breakdown (31311138553)
This is a Genuine BMW front strut designed for cars without Electronic Damping Control (EDC). It is the “Comfort” or standard suspension unit.
Positions: Front Left (Driver Side).
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Design: A complete spring-strut assembly (minus the coil spring and top mount) that houses the internal gas-pressure damping mechanism.
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Condition: In 2026, finding these “New in Original Packaging” is rare but still possible through specialized classic BMW warehouses.
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Compatibility: 1990–1994 BMW 850i/Ci (M70 V12 models).
2. Building a “Complete Front Set”
If you are looking to refresh the entire front axle using original parts, you must source the following companion components:
| Component | Part Number | Note |
| Right Front Strut | 31311138554 | The passenger-side counterpart. |
| Front Coil Springs | 31331138555 | Standard height (V12 specific). |
| Upper Strut Mounts | 31331139437 | Also called “Guide Support” with bearings. |
| Dust Protection Kit | 31321125878 | Rubber bellows to protect the piston rod. |
| Bump Stop | 31331140140 | Foam helper spring. |
3. The “Standard” vs. “EDC” Warning
Before purchasing 31311138553, you must confirm your 850i’s factory build.
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EDC (Option S223A): Features a switch on the dash to adjust damping. The struts for these cars are significantly more expensive and have electrical connectors at the top.
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Standard Suspension: If your car does not have the dash switch, 31311138553 is the correct factory replacement.
4. Modern Alternative: The Bilstein B12 Pro-Kit
Since many original E31 BMW dampers are now “NLA” (No Longer Available) or prohibitively expensive, the Bilstein B12 Pro-Kit (Ref: 46-188106) is the most popular “Complete Package” in 2026.
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What’s Inside: 4x Bilstein B6/B8 Performance Dampers + 4x Eibach Pro-Kit Springs.
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The Benefit: It lowers the car by ~25mm to fix the E31’s factory “nose-high” look and provides much more controlled handling than the 30-year-old original design.
Technical Note: If you are buying these parts from a private seller, ensure the box is sealed with the BMW Group hologram. Counterfeit dampers have become a common issue for classic 8 Series parts in recent years.
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