32 21 231 Replacing left or right tie rod

Special tools required: 

• 32 3 160  . See STEERING & WHEEL ALIGNMENT - SPECIAL TOOLS .

Necessary preliminary tasks: 

• Remove tie rod end from swivel bearing 
• Remove gaiter from power steering gear  and slide back

Unscrew tie rod with special tool 32 3 160  from rack of power steering gear and remove

Tightening torque 32 21 2AZ. 

Fig 1: Identifying Special Tool 32 3 160

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Clean rack and check surface for damage (e.g. by corrosion).

Replace O-ring (1).

Grease rack and O-ring (1) (refer to OPERATING FLUIDS ).

Fig 2: Identifying O-Ring

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Assembling new component with gaiter: 

Release clamping nut (2).

Screw off tie rod end; if necessary, grip tie rod with open-end wrench.tie rod end 

Remove clamping ring (1) and screw off clamping nut (2).

Slide gaiter (4) and band clamp (3) onto tie rod.

Screw clamping nut (2) onto tie rod.

Slide clamping ring (1) onto tie rod.

Determine measurement (A) on old part to simplify following adjustment of front axle.

Screw tie rod end onto tie rod to measurement (A).

Tighten down clamping nut (2).

Tightening torque 32 21 5AZ.  See STEERING AND WHEEL ALIGNMENT - TIGHTENING TORQUES .

Fig 3: Identifying Gaiter, Clamp And Clamping Ring

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

After installation: 

• Perform chassis alignment check 
• Carry out steering angle sensor adjustment/adjustment for active front steering  See 61 31 996 Carry out steering angle sensor adjustment .