32 11 100 Replacing gaiter for steering box on left or right

WARNING: This page does not describe the selected car, but rather 6 other vehicles, including the 2016 BMW 328i xDrive, 2016 BMW 328d xDrive, 2015 BMW 328i xDrive, 2015 BMW 328d xDrive, and 2014 BMW 328i xDrive. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

IMPORTANT: The hydraulic steering gear must be replaced if the polished surface of the rack is damaged (e.g. by corrosion)!

Necessary preliminary tasks:

Remove UNDERBODY PROTECTION
Remove COVER of front steering assemblies (diesel-engine cars with rear-wheel drive only)
Remove TRACK ROD END

Clean track rod.

Release band clamp (1), EAR CLAMP (1) and band clamp (2).

Detach gaiter from track rod.

Installation note:

Clean rack and check surface for damage (e.g. by corrosion).

Clean track rod and apply grease to taper.

NOTE: This ensures that the gaiter is not rotated when the track rod is rotated.

Fig 1: Identifying Steering Box Gaiter Band And Ear Clamp

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

After installation:

Perform CHASSIS/WHEEL ALIGNMENT CHECK