32 21 231 Replacing (removing and installing) left or right tie rod
WARNING: This page does not describe the selected car, but rather 6 other vehicles, including the 2013 BMW 128i, 2012 BMW 128i, 2011 BMW 128i, 2010 BMW 128i, and 2009 BMW 128i. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
IMPORTANT:
The steering gear must be replaced if the polished surface of the rack is damaged (e.g. by corrosion)!
Necessary preliminary tasks:
- Remove tie rod end from swivel bearing
- Remove gaiter from steering gear and slide back. Also see 32 11... Replacing gaiter for electric steering gear (EPS) on left or right .
IMPORTANT:
To avoid damage to rack and to suspension mounting, move rack in as far as possible.
Release joint (1) with standard tool (38 WAF) from steering gear rack.
Tightening torque, see 32 21 1AZ in 32 21 STEERING ARMS .
Installation:
Clean rack.
Check surface of rack for damage (e.g. corrosion).
Power steering gear only: Grease rack (refer to STEERING AND WHEEL ALIGNMENT - OPERATING FLUIDS ).
On replacement, assemble new part with gaiter:
- Determine measurement (A) to simplify following adjustment of front axle
Installation:
Slacken clamping screw (1) and screw off tie rod end.
Slide gaiter with ear clip and band clamp on tie rod.
Screw in tie rod end to measurement (A).
Tightening torque, see 32 21 2AZ in 32 21 STEERING ARMS .
After installation:
- Only if replacing/removing tie rod end: Perform CHASSIS ALIGNMENT CHECK
- Carry out steering angle sensor adjustment/adjustment for active front steering . See 32 10 005 Adjustment for active front steering and 61 31 996 CARRYING OUT STEERING ANGLE SENSOR ADJUSTMENT .