Removing the wheel arch

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.

Open welded connections in area (1).

Fig 1: Identifying Front Left Wheel Arch Welded Connection Areas

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Open welded connections in area (1).

Fig 2: Identifying Front Left Wheel Arch Welded Connection Areas

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Open welded connections in areas (1).

LOOSEN spot-welded adhesive joints in areas (2).

Roughly cut side frame connection along lines (3).

Release the side frame connection from the cavity sealing and remove.

Fig 3: Identifying Side Frame Connection Line, Welded Connections And Spot-Welded Adhesive Joints Areas

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Open welded connections in area (1).

Remove cavity sealing (2).

Fig 4: Identifying Cavity Sealing And Welded Connection Areas

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Drill out rivet connections in area (1).

Open bonded connection in area (2).

Fig 5: Identifying Rivets Area

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Open welded connections in area (1).

Fig 6: Identifying Front Left Wheel Arch Welded Connection Areas

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Drill out rivet connections in areas (1) and (2).

Open bonded connections in areas (1) and (2).

Remove the wheel arch.

Fig 7: Identifying Rivet Holes Drill Areas

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