18 12 046 Replacing front silencer (N20, N26)

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.

WARNING: Risk of burning!
Only perform this repair work after the exhaust system has cooled down.

Support front silencer with a suitable jack and secure against falling down.

NOTE: If the separation point is not marked by a punch mark in the pipe, determine the separation point by means of the pipe length on the new front silencer.
Carry over separation point to defective front pipe and mark.
Secure front silencer against falling out.
Cut through exhaust pipes at marked point with a suitable tool and deburr.

Fig 1: Identifying Exhaust Pipes Marked Point

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

If fitted:

Release screws (1).

Tightening torque 18 20 4AZ .

Remove reinforcement plate (2).

Lower front silencer and remove.

Fig 2: Identifying Reinforcement Plate And Screws

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

If fitted:

Release screws (1).

Tightening torque 18 20 4AZ .

Unfasten screws (2).

Tightening torque 18 20 5AZ .

Fig 3: Identifying Reinforcement Plate Screws

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Installation note:

Fit new front silencer and connect with clamp.

Align clamping sleeves so that:

Nuts point downwards.
Cutting line is in middle of clamping sleeve.
There is sufficient spacing to adjoining components.

Center clamp and tighten down.

Tightening torque 18 31 4AZ .

Fig 4: Identifying Nitrogen Oxide Catalytic Converter

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

NOTE: Check exhaust system for leaks.
Check rubber mounts, renew damaged rubber mounts.