18 32 050 Removing and installing/replacing catalytic converter (N20)

WARNING: This page does not describe the selected car, but rather 50 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.

WARNING: Risk of burning!
Only perform this repair work after the exhaust system has cooled down.

Necessary preliminary tasks:

Remove front UNDERBODY PROTECTION .
Remove rear UNDERBODY PROTECTION .
Remove EXHAUST SYSTEM .
Four-wheel drive vehicles only:
Remove STIFFENING PLATE

NOTE: When removing and installing the catalytic converter there is the risk of damage to the control sensor and monitoring sensor.

REMOVE THE CONTROL SENSOR .

REMOVE MONITORING SENSOR .

Release clamp (1). The clamp must be renewed every time it is removed.

Tightening torque 18 31 2AZ .

Installation note:

Clean sealing surface. Renew clamp and seal.

Fig 1: Identifying Catalytic Converter Clamp

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Installation note:

When installing the catalytic converter make sure that the separation point (1) of the V-band clamp is aligned with the center of the welding spot (2) on the catalytic converter.

This guarantees that the wastegate valve lever does not collide with the V-band clamp.

Fig 2: Identifying Welding Spot On Catalytic Converter

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Release nuts (1).

Tightening torque 18 20 1AZ .

Pull off rubber mounts from the catalytic converter.

Unfasten screws (2).

Tightening torque 18 20 2AZ .

Unscrew nuts (3).

Tightening torque 18 20 1AZ .

Remove holder for catalytic converter.

Pull out catalytic converter towards the bottom and remove.

Fig 3: Identifying Catalytic Converter, Nut And Screws

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Reassemble the vehicle.

Check exhaust system for leaks.