51 72... Sealing installation

NOTE: The utmost care must be taken when removing all sealings on the vehicle. Incorrect fitting can lead to wind noise and water ingress among other things and can affect the ease of closing and opening.

In general, the following applies:
Sealings on the side frame can be fitted and removed any number of times.
Sealings must not be damaged or torn.
The clamping area must be compressed by hand far enough to ensure that a tight connection on the side flange is still possible. The sealing shanks may touch each other slightly. A completely compressed sealing is not permitted.

Fig 1: Identifying Correct Sealing
Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.
It is not necessary to use special tools for compressing the clamping area. This can be done carefully by hand.
The sealings must always be fitted except in the case of blockages. There is no defined contact pressure.
A new gasket must be fitted if sealings in the tailgate area are repeatedly fitted and removed (water ingress due to cracked sheet metal).
Sealings must be checked for correct positioning after fitting. If necessary, sealings should be lifted over the adjacent components using the appropriate tool. Neighboring components must not be damaged.
Sealings must be replaced if the metal inlay of the sealing is visible (corrosion).

Fig 2: Identifying Incorrect Sealing
Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.
Ensure that the clamping area is smooth.

Fig 3: Identifying Clamping Area
Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.
Sealings that are installed with plastic clips fit tightly against the body. If this is not the case, replace the clips or sealings.

Fig 4: Identifying Plastic Clips And Body
Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.