12 41 020 Removing and installing/replacing starter motor

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:

Switch off ignition
Disconnect BATTERY NEGATIVE LEAD from battery
Remove pressure accumulator

NOTE: Remove starter motor from below.

Unscrew nut (1).

Tightening torque 12 41 4AZ .

Disconnect battery positive lead (2) from starter motor.

Fig 1: Disconnecting Battery Positive Lead From Starter Motor

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

NOTE: For purposes of clarity, reinforcement plate is not shown.

Do not remove reinforcement plate.

Release screws (1).

Fig 2: Releasing Screws

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Tightening torque 12 41 1AZ .

Pull starter motor out of transmission mount and turn in order to facilitate access to control leads on starter motor.

Unscrew nuts (1).

Fig 3: Removing Starter Motor

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Tightening torque 12 41 4AZ .

Detach control leads (2) from starter motor.

Remove starter motor.

Installation:

Check starter pinion and starter ring gear for damage.

Fig 4: Checking Starter Pinion And Starter Ring Gear

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.