31 12 000 Removing and installing/replacing left or right control arm

WARNING: This page does not describe the selected car, but rather 7 other vehicles, including the 2010 BMW X3, 2009 BMW X3, 2008 BMW X3, 2007 BMW X3, and 2006 BMW X3. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Special tools required:

31 2 240 PULLER

NOTE: If the control arm is detached from the front axle carrier, it is necessary after reinstallation to carry out a wheel/chassis alignment check.

NOTE: Checking control arm:

Refer to Measuring play of wheel control joints, see 31 12 023 Measuring play of wheel control joints .

Necessary preliminary tasks:

Remove front wheels, see 36 10 300 REMOVING OR INSTALLING FRONT OR REAR WHEEL .
If necessary, remove jointed rod of ride-height sensor from control arm

Release nut and remove bolt towards front.

Only on right side: If necessary, remove holder with ride-height sensor.

Installation:

Replace self-locking nut.

Tightening torque: 31 12 2AZ, see 31 12 CONTROL ARMS AND STRUTS .

Fig 1: Locating Self-Locking Nut

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Release nut by only 3 thread turns so that control arm is not flung away unchecked when forced off.

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

Unscrew nut and remove control arm.

Installation:

Keep journal on ball head and bushing in swivel bearing clean and free from oil and grease.

Replace self-locking nut.

Tightening torque: 31 12 6AZ, see 31 12 CONTROL ARMS AND STRUTS .

Fig 2: Special Tool (31 2 240)

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

After installation:

Perform chassis alignment check, see 32 00 ... CHASSIS/WHEEL ALIGNMENT CHECK PROCEDURE .
Carry out steering angle sensor adjustment