Necessary preliminary tasks

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2013 BMW X5 M, 2012 BMW X5 M, 2011 BMW X5 M, and 2010 BMW X5 M. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Remove FRONT WHEEL .
Remove STEERING GEAR COVER AT SIDE BOTTOM .

Secure special tool 31 5 220 with wheel studs to drive flange.

Support swivel bearing with special tool 31 5 220 and workshop jack.

Fig 1: Supporting Swivel Bearing With Special Tool (31 5 220) And Workshop Jack

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Release nut (1) and remove screw (2).

Installation:

Replace screw and nut.

Note insertion direction of screw.

Tighten bolt connection in NORMAL POSITION .

Tightening torque 31 12 7AZ .

Fig 2: Identifying Control Arm Screw And Nut

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Slacken nut (1).

Remove screw (2) and remove control arm (3) from front axle carrier.

Installation:

Note insertion direction of screw.

Replace self-locking nut.

Tighten bolt connection in NORMAL POSITION .

Tightening torque 31 12 3AZ .

Fig 3: Identifying Control Arm, Screw And Nut

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

IMPORTANT: Do not release control arm from swivel bearing with impact tool.
Make sure special tool rests correctly on steel bushing of swivel bearing. The swivel bearing must be removed if the steel bushing moves.
Rubber gaiter of control arm must not be damaged!
Do not pull stainless steel ring off journal.

Slacken nut (1) two to three thread turns.

If necessary, replace lower section 31 2 242 with lower section 31 2 247 .

Press control arm (2) with special tool 31 2 240 ) off swivel bearing.

Unscrew nut (1) and remove control arm (2) from swivel bearing.

Installation:

Fig 4: Pressing Control Arm With Special Tool (31 2 240)

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Keep control arm to swivel bearing connection clean and free from oil and grease.

Replace self-locking nut.

Tightening torque 31 12 4AZ .