12 31 020 Removing and installing or replacing alternator

WARNING: This page does not describe the selected car, but rather 6 other vehicles, including the 2006 BMW X5, 2006 BMW X3, 2005 BMW X5, 2005 BMW X3, and 2004 BMW X5. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Necessary preliminary tasks:

Check stored fault messages.
Switch off ignition.
Observe instructions for DISCONNECTING AND CONNECTING BATTERY .
Disconnect battery ground wire and mask
Remove INTAKE FILTER HOUSING .
Remove ALTERNATOR DRIVE BELT .

Unlock and detach plug connection (1).

Fig 1: Removing Battery Positive Lead

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Release nut (2) and remove battery positive lead.

Tightening torque 12 31 1AZ .

Remove cover from idler pulley (1).

Fig 2: Removing Alternator

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Release screw and remove idler pulley (1).

Release screw and remove alternator (2).

Installation:

Turning lock of tensioning roller must engage in alternator groove.

Fig 3: View Of Turning Lock

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

NOTE: Read out fault memory of DME control unit.

Now clear the fault memory.