37 22 540 Replacing the air supply system

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: For F07vehicles built until including 12/2010:

When replacing the air supply system, run "Converting the EHC replacement compressor" with the diagnosis system!

IMPORTANT: Danger of injury!
Drain the air suspension system before carrying out any work on the air supply system, air pipes and air spring struts! Danger of injury if this instruction is not complied with!

Risk of damage!

Extreme cleanliness must be ensured at the connection face of the pipes during dismantling and installation. Even the smallest of dirt particles can cause leakage in the air suspension system.

NOTE: Read and comply with notes on air suspension system.

Necessary preliminary tasks

Deactivating air suspension system:
- Raise vehicle on lifting platform.
- Remove ignition key
- Pull out fuse for air spring system in luggage compartment at rear right

IMPORTANT: Do not kink, twist or crush pipes.

Release nuts and screws.

Remove trim (1).

Fig 1: Locating Trim Nuts And Screws

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Unlock plug connections (1) and (2) and disconnect.
Carefully slacken banjo bolt (3) and (4) until the sound of escaping air can be heard

NOTE: Wait roughly 2 minutes until the pressure on the left side and/or right side of the air spring system is completely reduced (hissing sound stops).

Fig 2: Identifying Plug Connections And Lines
Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Line (3), air spring strut, left: Red

Line (4), air spring strut, right: Blue
Only fully release banjo bolt(s) after complete pressure reduction

Installation note:

Replacement: Remove and dispose of screw connections on new air supply system!
Reuse screw connections on lines.
Check banjo bolts for dirt, clean if necessary.
Carefully screw in banjo bolts by hand to avoid damaging the plastic threads and with it air supply system.

Tightening torque 37 12 1AZ .

Unfasten plug connector (1) and disconnect.

Disconnect ventilation line (2).

Release nuts (3) and remove air supply unit.

Tightening torque 37 22 1AZ .

Fig 3: Identifying Air Supply Unit Plug Connector, Ventilation Line And Mounting Nuts

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Activating and filling air spring system:

Insert fuse in corresponding slot in fuse box
Set vehicle down on its wheels
Start engine
Air spring system is automatically filled

After installation:

For F07vehicles built until including 12/2010:

When replacing the air supply system, run Converting the EHC replacement compressor with the diagnosis system!