36 13 Subsequent installation of wheel-bolt lock

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2005 BMW 530i, 2005 BMW 525i, 2004 BMW 530i, and 2004 BMW 525i. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Loosen wheel bolts.

Raise car so that wheel can be turned freely.

Release wheel studs to such an extent that the wheel can move freely on the wheel hub.

Turn wheel so that valve is face down.

Remove top wheel stud and insert wheel stud lock.

Fig 1: Ensuring Valve Is Fact Down & Removing Top Wheel Stud

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Possible play in wheel center and wheel weight could cause imbalance.

This imbalance is reduced to a minimum by installing the somewhat heavier wheel-bolt lock in the top wheel-bolt position.

In this position - wheel stud lock at top, valve at bottom - tighten wheel studs hand-tight in diagonal sequence.

Lower car and tighten wheel bolts crosswise.

Tightening torque, see 36 10 1AZ in WHEEL & TIRES - TIGHTENING TORQUES .

If this sequence of fitting the wheel stud lock is followed by a customer complaint about wheel imbalance, it will be necessary to finish-balance the wheels.

Fig 2: Tightening Wheel Bolts Crosswise

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.