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

WARNING: This page does not describe the selected car, but rather 18 other vehicles, including the 2015 BMW Alpina B7L xDrive, 2015 BMW Alpina B7 xDrive, 2015 BMW 750i xDrive, 2015 BMW 750Li xDrive, and 2015 BMW 740Li xDrive. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

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

Necessary preliminary work:

Remove COVER ON REAR BUMPER PANEL .

Version with Smart Opener:

Remove SENSOR LINE AT TOP .

Release screws (1) on wheel arch cover at rear (2).

Fig 1: Identifying Rear Wheel Arch Cover And Screws

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Raise rear light cover (1).

Lever out left expanding rivet (2) underneath.

Fig 2: Identifying Rear Light Cover And Rivet

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Release screws (1).

If necessary, remove exhaust system trims (2).

Fig 3: Identifying Exhaust System Trims And Screws

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IMPORTANT: Risk of damage!
Bumper panel (1) is engaged at the sides in the holder (2) and must be unlocked for removal.

Removing

Starting from the outside, carefully snap out the individual guide tabs on left and right

Fig 4: Identifying Bumper Panel And Holder
Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.
Pull bumper panel (1) straight towards rear with aid of a 2nd person
If necessary, disconnect plug connections
Remove the bumper panel (1)

Installation note:

PROTECTIVE FILM FOR PREVENTING PAINT ABRASION in the area of the invisible joint (side frame) must not de damaged or missing.

Guide tabs at top and bottom must not be damaged!

Observe 41 00... BODY GAP DIMENSIONS .

Fig 5: Identifying Protective Film Area On Bumper

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Replacement:

Remount towing eye cover
Fit REAR ULTRASONIC SENSORS from old component.
Fit REAR REFLECTORS from old component.