31 12 004 Removing and installing/renewing left or right lower wishbone

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.

IMPORTANT:

With vehicles F01, F02 and F07 up to version 02/2010, only renew wishbones in pairs!
If the lower wishbone is detached from the front axle support, it is necessary after installation to carry out a wheel alignment . See 32 00 150 KDS CHASSIS/WHEEL ALIGNMENT CHECK WITH VEHICLE LOAD UP TO DESIGN POSITION or 32 00 155 KDS WHEEL ALIGNMENT CHECK WITH RIDE HEIGHT MEASUREMENT WITHOUT VEHICLE LOAD .

Necessary preliminary work

Remove FRONT WHEEL. .
Remove COVER FROM THE STEERING BOX. .
Remove GAITER from steering box.

Release nut (1) and remove screw.

Tightening torque 31 12 7AZ.

Release spring strut from wishbone (2).

Installation note:

Note direction of insertion of screw.

Replace screw and nut.

Tighten down screw connection in NORMAL POSITION .

Fig 1: Identifying Spring Strut Wishbone And Mounting Nut

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Release screw (1) and remove wishbone (2) from front axle support.

Tightening torque 31 12 3AZ

Installation note:

Note direction of insertion of screw.

Replace screw and nut.

Tighten down screw connection in NORMAL POSITION.

Fig 2: Identifying Front Axle Support Wishbone And Screw

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

IMPORTANT: Do not release wishbone from swivel bearing with impact tool.
The swivel bearing must be removed if the steel bushing moves.
Rubber boot of wishbone must not be damaged!
Do not pull stainless steel ring off journal.

Release nut (1) and remove wishbone (2) from swivel bearing.

Tightening torque 31 12 4AZ.

Installation note:

Replace self-locking nut.

Keep wishbone to swivel bearing connection clean and free from oil and grease.

Fig 3: Identifying Swivel Bearing Wishbone And Nut

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

After installation

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