32 21 231 Replacing (Removing And Installing) Left Or Right Track Rod

WARNING: This page does not describe the selected car, but rather 47 other vehicles, including the 2016 BMW M5, 2016 BMW ActiveHybrid 5, 2016 BMW 550i xDrive, 2016 BMW 550i, and 2016 BMW 535i xDrive. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Special tools required:

32 3 220

IMPORTANT: The steering box must be replaced if the polished surface of the rack is damaged (e.g. by corrosion)!

Necessary preliminary tasks:

Remove STIFFENING PLATE (M5 only).
Remove TRACK ROD END FROM SWIVEL BEARING .
Remove GAITER FROM STEERING BOX and slide back.

IMPORTANT: To avoid damage to rack and to suspension mounting, move rack in as far as possible.

Unscrew track rod with special tool 32 3 220 from rack of steering box.

Installation note:

Clean rack.

Check surface of rack for damage (e.g. corrosion).

Grease rack (refer to BMW Service Operating Fluids ).

Tightening torque: 32 21 1AZ .

Fig 1: Unscrewing Track Rod From Rack Of Steering Box

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Fig 2: Gaiter, Band Clamp, Clamping Ring And Nut

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

On replacement, assemble new part with gaiter:

Determine dimension (A) on used part to simplify following adjustment of front axle.
Slacken clamping nut (2).
Screw off track rod end; if necessary, grip track rod with open-end spanner.
Remove clamping ring (1) and screw off clamping nut (2).
Slide gaiter (4) and ear clamp and band clamp (3) onto track rod.
Slide clamping nut (2) and clamping ring (1) onto track rod.
Screw track rod end onto track rod to dimension (A).
Tighten down clamping nut (2).
Tightening torque: 32 21 2AZ .

After installation:

Only if replacing/removing track rod end: Perform CHASSIS/WHEEL ALIGNMENT CHECK .