51 21 170 Removing and installing or replacing outside handle from left or right front door

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Special tools required:

51 2 220 . See BODY EQUIPMENT - SPECIAL TOOLS .

NOTE: If replacing version with comfort access/CA:
In order to avoid Comfort Access malfunction, use only original BMW paints on the outside handle with electrically non-conducting primer.
New part (from 09/2005) is provided with electrically non-conducting primer.

Removal:

NOTE: Installation is described separately from removal.

2-door models:

Lever out cap (1) to release screw underneath.

Lever out cap (2) only to release from outside handle cover.

Fig 1: Identifying Caps

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

4-door models:

Refer to 2-door models.

Fig 2: Identifying Caps For 4-Door Models

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

NOTE: Protect bore (1) against scratching (risk of corrosion).

IMPORTANT: If the screw is not correctly secured, the lock mechanism can jump back and the sound insulation must be removed.

Fig 3: Pulling Outside Handle Outwards/Upwards

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Pull outside handle (2) outwards/upwards until screw (3) is accessible and hold.

Using special tool 51 2 220 , screw down screw (3) in counterclockwise direction and thereby secure outside handle (2).

Tightening torque 51 21 5AZ . See 21 FRONT DOOR LOCKS, HANDLE .

Pull off outside handle (1) from rear lock actuator (2).
Pull off outside handle (1) downwards (as shown in illustration) from front lock actuator (3).

Fig 4: Pulling Off Outside Handle From Rear Lock Actuator
Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Installation:

Following parts on outside handle (4) must not be damaged or missing:

Rear mounting
Front mounting
Felt strip (if available for refitting/replacement no longer required)

Fig 5: Identifying Parts On Outside Handle
Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Stop pad (1) must be fitted.

Insert outside handle (4) with bore (3) correctly in mounting (2).

Engage mounting (5) of outside handle (4) correctly in lock actuator (6).

Fig 6: Identifying Mounting Of Outside Handle

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

NOTE: Protect bore (1) against scratching/damaged paintwork (risk of corrosion).

IMPORTANT: If the screw is not correctly secured, the lock mechanism can jump back and the sound insulation must be removed.

Fig 7: Identifying Bore And Outside Handle

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Grip outside handle (2) and, using special tool 51 2 220 , screw down screw (3) in clockwise direction.

Tightening torque 51 21 5AZ . See 21 FRONT DOOR LOCKS, HANDLE .

Carry out function check only with door open.