New part preparation

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.

Operation is partially described on the left side. Right side identical.

NOTE: On vehicles with a sensor for lane change warning, See 51 12 825 REMOVING AND INSTALLING/REPLACING GUIDE FOR REAR CENTRE BUMPER or 66 32 020 REMOVING AND INSTALLING/REPLACING SENSOR FOR LANE CHANGE WARNING also check the bumper guide for correct seating.

IMPORTANT: Version with automatic tailgate activation:
Risk of damage to spindle drive: only move rear lid slowly by hand.

Mark severance cut (1) at edge and remove sheet metal flange (2).

Open weld joints in area (3) and remove component (4).

NOTE: Rear trim panel is only bonded in area (3). Riveting is not necessary.

Fig 1: Identifying Sheet Metal Flange, Severance Cut Mark, Trim Panel Bonded And Welded Area

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Adjust new parts to fit and secure.

In areas (1) and (2) set 4.2 mm dia. holes for blind rivets :

Area (1): 9 bore holes

Area (2): 1 hole on each side

Fig 2: Identifying Blind Rivets Bore Holes Areas

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Make sheet metal angle in accordance with specified dimensions.

Dimension a = approx. 20 - 25 mm

Dimension b = approx. 20 - 25 mm

Dimension c = approx. 30 mm

NOTE: Adapt sheet metal angle to respective shape of installation location.

Fig 3: Identifying Sheet Metal Angle With Dimensions

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Adapt sheet metal angle (1).

In areas (1) to (3), set 4.2 mm dia. holes for blind rivets:

Area (1): 2 bore holes

Area (2): 1 bore hole

Area (3): 4 bore holes

Fig 4: Identifying Sheet Metal Angle And Blind Rivets Hole Areas

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

In areas (1) to (4) set 4.2 mm dia. bore holes for blind rivets:

Area	Number
1	9 (total)
2	2
3	3
4	10

Remove rear trim panel outer skin .

Fig 5: Identifying Tail Panel Sections Blind Rivets Bore Hole Areas

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Fig 6: Identifying Sheet Metal Angle On Rear Trim Panel Outer Skin

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Adapt sheet metal angle (1).

For each sheet metal angle set two 4.2 mm dia. holes for blind rivets.

Remove inner rear trim panel. Deburr all bore holes.

IMPORTANT: Do not grind new parts and body in area of bonding surfaces.