51 11 000 Removing and installing complete front bumper (from 10/01)

WARNING: This page does not describe the selected car, but rather 16 other vehicles, including the 2006 BMW 325Ci, 2005 BMW 325xi, 2005 BMW 325i, 2005 BMW 325Ci, and 2004 BMW 325xi. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Special Tools Required:

NOTE: For special tools, refer to BODY EQUIPMENT - SPECIAL TOOLS - 3-SERIES (M54/E46) .

00 9 321

NOTE: Repair sequence only applicable to E46 cars (except compact) from model redesign (10/01).

Release screws (1) on left/right.

Lever out clips (2).

Fig 1: Releasing Screws (1) On Left/Right And Levering Out Clips (2)

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Release impact absorber screws (1).

Fig 2: Releasing Impact Absorber Screws

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Installation:

Tightening torque, refer to 51 11 2AZ in BODY EQUIPMENT - TIGHTENING TORQUES - 325I, CI & XI - E46

Lever out wheel arch liner (1) on left/right with fishbone with special tool 00 9 321, pulling bumper (2) forwards slightly in so doing.

Fig 3: Levering Out Wheel Arch Liner On Left/Right With Fishbone

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Firmly pull off bumper on both sides towards front. In so doing, grip primarily edge of wheel arch (1) (DO NOT PULL AT SIDES).

Fig 4: Pulling Off Bumper

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CAUTION: Do not pull bumper too far; there is a risk of damage to the electrical fittings (connecting cable, air horn, fog lamps).

Installation:

Retaining lugs (1) must not be damaged.

Fig 5: Identifying Retaining Lugs

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Disconnect plug connections (1) of air horn on left/right.

Version with fog lamps:

Also disconnect plug connections (2) of fog lamps on left/right.

Fig 6: Disconnecting Plug Connections Of Fog Lamps On Left/Right And Bumper

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Remove bumper (3) towards front.

Installation:

Height of bumper is adjusted by turning hexagon socket head screw (1) on impact absorber (2).

Fig 7: Turning Hexagon Socket Head Screw On Impact Absorber

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Installation:

After sliding in bumper, clip panel into place sideways if necessary (by pressing gently on edge of wheel arch to center of car).

In so doing, pay attention to alignment to turn signal lamp housing.

Carry out same work in event of slight parking bumps.

Installation:

Adjust all-round gap (A) between bumper and body cutout as uniformly as possible.

Fig 8: Adjusting All-Round Between Bumper And Body

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Bumper
Body
Seal