31 12 004 Removing and installing/replacing bottom left or right control arm

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IMPORTANT:

With vehicles F01, F02 and F07 up to version 02/2010, only replace control arms in pairs!
Read and comply with any BMW Parts Department notes.
If the lower control arm is detached from the front axle support, it is necessary after installation to carry out a wheel alignment. See ALIGNMENT CHECK WITH VEHICLE LOAD or 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 control arm (2).

Installation note:

Note direction of insertion of screw.

Replace screw and nut.

Tighten down screw connection in NORMAL POSITION .

Fig 1: Identifying Control Arm And Nut

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Release screw (1) and remove control arm (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 Control Arm And Screws

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

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

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

Tightening torque 31 12 4AZ .

Installation note:

Replace self-locking nut.

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

Fig 3: Identifying Control Arm And Nut

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

After installation

Carry out wheel alignment procedure. See ALIGNMENT CHECK WITH VEHICLE LOAD or ALIGNMENT CHECK WITH RIDE HEIGHT MEASUREMENT (WITHOUT VEHICLE LOAD) .