32 21 231 Replacing left or right tie rod

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2005 BMW 645Ci and 2004 BMW 645Ci. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Special tools required:

32 3 160

Necessary preliminary tasks:

Remove tie rod end from swivel bearing, refer to 32 21 151 REPLACING LEFT OR RIGHT TIE ROD .
Remove gaiter from power steering gear and slide back, refer to 32 11 100 REPLACING GAITER FOR STEERING GEAR ON LEFT OR RIGHT .

IMPORTANT: To avoid damage to rack and to suspension mounting, move rack in as far as possible.

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

Fig 1: Unscrewing Tie Rod With From Rack Of Power Steering Gear

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Clean rack.

Check surface of rack for damage (e.g. corrosion).

Replace O-ring (1).

Grease rack and O-ring (1).

Refer to OPERATING FLUIDS

Fig 2: Replacing 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.

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

Push gaiter (4), band clamp (3), clamping nut (2) and clamping ring (1) onto tie rod.

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

Screw in tie rod end to measurement (A).

Tighten down clamping nut (2).

Fig 3: Identifying Rack Pinion Components

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After installation:

Perform chassis alignment check
Carry out steering angle sensor adjustment/adjustment for active front steering, refer to 32 10 005 ADJUSTMENT FOR ACTIVE FRONT STEERING .