51 24 400 Removing and installing/replacing electric spindle drive for tailgate at (top) left or right

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2013 BMW 550i GT, 2012 BMW 550i GT, 2011 BMW 550i GT, and 2010 BMW 550i GT. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

WARNING: In the event of customer complaints:

Rattling when opening and closing
Drive not functioning
Drive is blocked or sluggish
No longer closes or opens

Or if incorrect operation is suspected:

Rear lid was closed with excessive exertion of force
Bent, broken piston rod
Broken ball head

The inner compression spring must be secured against sudden unintended release.

WARNING: Danger of injury!

Support rear lid in fully opened position with suitable apparatus.

IMPORTANT: Risk of damage to spindle drive!
If spindle drive has been electrically disabled (e.g. connector unplugged) the tailgate must only be moved slowly by hand.

IMPORTANT: Before starting work, open tailgate (top) to maximum extent.

Pull rubber hose end piece (1) out of roof frame.

Installation note:

To avoid water leaks, it is essential to slide rubber hose end piece (1) accurately into roof frame opening.

Fig 1: Identifying Rubber Hose End Piece

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Disconnect plug connection (1).

Installation note:

To avoid rattling noise, wrap plug connection in foam strips again.

Fig 2: Identifying Plug Connection

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IMPORTANT: Risk of damage!
If you are not careful, retaining spring (2) may be bent to such an extent that the entire drive spindle will have to be replaced.

Press drive spindle (1) against ball pin in order to relieve strain on retaining spring (2) at ball pin.

Fig 3: Pulling Out Retaining Spring Using Screwdriver

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Pull out retaining spring (2) approx. 2-3 mm with screwdriver (3).

Pull off spindle foot.

WARNING: Observe warning notices on the damper

Electric spindle drive for rear lid is under mechanical spring bias!

The component must be secured against falling down.

IMPORTANT: Risk of damage!
Do not press on spindle drive at an angle or twisted.

Installation note:

Press ball socket (1) onto ball pin (2) until retaining spring (3) engages correctly (clicking sound).

Fig 4: Pressing Ball Socket Onto Ball Pin

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IMPORTANT: If retaining spring (4) is damaged!
Release pin (1).
Remove spindle drive (3).
Remove ball socket (2).
Remove retaining spring (4) and replace if necessary.

Fig 5: Identifying Spindle Drive, Ball Socket, Retaining Spring And Pin

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Installation note:

Run a function check.

Initialize spindle drive by carrying out the corresponding procedure.