51 12 000 Removing and installing complete rear bumper

Special Tools Required:

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

00 2 150

NOTE: Version with trailer coupling: Remove finisher strip. All models: Remove trim on bumper trim at rear. See 51 12 080 Removing and installing/replacing finisher strip on bumper trim

Sedan and touring:

Stick on fabric adhesive tape (1) below screw to bumper (risk of damage).

Attach special tool 0 2 150 to ratchet and release screw on left/right.

Fig 1: Identifying Special Tool 0 2 150

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NOTE: Saloon/sedan with M aerodynamics package only: Screw can be removed towards bottom.

Installation:

Tightening torque, refer to 51 12 2AZ in BODY EQUIPMENT - TIGHTENING TORQUES - 325I, CI & XI - E46 .

Sedan and touring:

Pull bumper (1) towards rear/bottom and remove screw (2) towards rear/bottom.

Fig 2: Pulling Bumper Towards Rear/Bottom And Remove Screw Towards Rear/Bottom

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Coupe and Convertible:

Attach special tool 00 2 150 to ratchet and release screw on left/right.

Fig 3: Attaching Special Tool 00 2 150

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Installation:

Tightening torque, refer to 51 12 2AZ in BODY EQUIPMENT - TIGHTENING TORQUES - 325I, CI & XI - E46 .

Coupe and Convertible:

Pull bumper (1) towards rear/bottom and remove screw (2) towards front/bottom.

Fig 4: Pulling Bumper Towards Rear/Bottom And Remove Screw Towards Front/Bottom

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Version with Park Distance Control (PDC):

Unclip left cable holder (1) towards bottom.

Fig 5: Uncliping Left Cable Holder Towards Bottom

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Construction status from 12/98:

Release nut (1) on left/right.

Remove bracket (2) from bumper (3).

Fig 6: Removing Bracket From Bumper

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Installation:

Tightening torque, refer to 51 12 5AZ in BODY EQUIPMENT - TIGHTENING TORQUES - 325I, CI & XI - E46 .

Release expansion rivet (1) on left/right.

Fig 7: Releasing Expansion Rivet On Left/Right

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Lift out wheel arch finisher (2) on left/right and pull bumper (3) a little to rear.

All except Convertible with TV:

Pull off bumper (3) towards rear.

Convertible with TV only:

Remove storage tray in trunk on left.

Disconnect plug connection (1).

Fig 8: Disconnecting Plug Connection

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Convertible with TV only:

Pull out cable plug with grommet (1) towards rear.

Release nut (2) on left/right.

Pull off bumper (3) towards rear.

Fig 9: Releasing Nut On Left/Right And Pulling Off Bumper Towards Rear

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