51 12 156 Removing and installing (replacing) rear bumper panel

WARNING: This page is about a different variant/trim than selected.

IMPORTANT: To guarantee system function on vehicles with LANE CHANGE WARNING SENSOR :

there must be no mechanical damage (e.g. dents) and no body repair work with filler or painting (several coats) must be carried out in a 10 cm radius about the left or right sensor on the bumper panel
no stickers must be attached in the area of the sensor

Follow the further instructions according to painting manual.

IMPORTANT: Risk of damage.
The rear lights must be removed to remove the bumper panel.

Necessary preliminary tasks:

Remove BOTH REAR LIGHTS
Remove number plate with baseplate

Remove WATER CHANNEL COVER

Release screws (1) on wheel arch trim (2).

Fig 1: Identifying Screws On Wheel Arch Trim

G10062578

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Release expanding rivets (1).

Fig 2: Identifying Expanding Rivets

G10062579

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Release screw (1).

Tightening torque 51 12 6AZ .

Release latch mechanisms (2) from bumper (3).

Fig 3: Identifying Latch Mechanisms, Bumper, And Screw

G10062580

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

IMPORTANT: Bumper panel (3) is laterally engaged in fixture holders (1) and (2). Holders (1) and (2) must be disengaged for dismantling (risk of damage).

Starting from the outside, carefully snap out the individual guide tabs on left and right
Pull bumper panel (3) straight backward with aid of a second person
If necessary, disconnect plug connections
Remove the bumper panel (3)

Fig 4: Identifying Bumper Panel And Holders

G10062581

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Installation note:

Guide tabs at top and bottom must not be damaged.

Observe 41 00... BODY GAP DIMENSIONS .

Fig 5: Identifying Guide Tabs

G10062582

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Replacement:

Remount towing eye cover
Remount NUMBER PLATE LIGHT
Remount REAR ULTRASONIC SENSOR
Remount REAR REFLECTOR