31 12 000 Removing and installing/replacing left or right wishbone (AWD)

Special tools required:

NOTE: If the wishbone is detached from the front axle support, it is necessary after reinstallation to carry out a wheel/chassis alignment check.
If the wishbone is loosened at the swivel bearing only, no wheel alignment will be necessary.

Necessary preliminary tasks

Remove FRONT WHEEL .

Version with xenon lights:

Release nut (1) and remove jointed rod (2) from wishbone (3).

Installation note:

Replace self-locking nut.

Tightening torque 37 14 3AZ .

Fig 1: Identifying Wishbone, Jointed Rod And Nut

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Release nut (1) and remove bolt (2) towards front.

Press swivel bearing in area of leading link outwards and remove wishbone from front axle support.

Installation note:

Make sure that diesel enclosure is correctly positioned to side of wishbone.

Replace self-locking nut.

Tightening torque 31 12 3AZ .

Fig 2: Identifying Nut And Bolt

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Release nut (1) approx. 3-4 thread turns; if necessary, grip at hexagon.

If necessary, replace lower section 31 2 242 with lower section 31 2 246

Press off wishbone from swivel bearing using special tool 31 2 240 (consisting of 31 2 241 , 31 2 243 , 31 2 244 , 31 2 245 and 31 2 246 ).

Unscrew nut (1) and remove wishbone.

Fig 3: Pressing Off Wishbone From Swivel Bearing Using Special Tool (31 2 240)

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Installation note:

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 4AZ .

After installation

Perform wheel alignment . See 32 00 150 KDS CHASSIS/WHEEL ALIGNMENT CHECK WITH VEHICLE LOAD UP TO DESIGN POSITION or 32 00 155 KDS CHASSIS/WHEEL ALIGNMENT CHECK WITH RIDE HEIGHT MEASUREMENT WITHOUT VEHICLE LOAD
Carry out STEERING ANGLE SENSOR ADJUSTMENT .