Detaching and removing front axle completely

WARNING: Vehicle may slip off the vehicle hoist if the vehicle hoist is handled incorrectly .
Danger! Immobilization period-threatening injuries!

Observe safety instructions on raising the vehicle using a vehicle hoist.
For additional information see: RAISING THE VEHICLE WITH A VEHICLE LIFT) .

WARNING: Car may slip off the vehicle hoist where components are supported .
Danger! Immobilization period-threatening injuries!

Secure the vehicle hoist against lowering and lifting.
Make sure that the vehicle does not lift off the mounting plates on the vehicle lift.

WARNING: Car may slip off the vehicle hoist if the weight is distributed unevenly .
Danger! Immobilization period-threatening injuries!

Ensure there is a specific weight compensation on the car.

Preliminary work

Refer to DISCONNECTING ALL BATTERY GROUND LEADS .
Refer to DETACHING STEERING SHAFT AT BOTTOM FROM STEERING GEAR .
Refer to ATTACHING THE LEFT AND RIGHT COOLANT RADIATOR .
Refer to REMOVING THE FRONT LEFT AND RIGHT WHEELS .
Refer to REMOVING THE FRONT UNDERBODY PROTECTION .
Refer to IF INSTALLED: REMOVING REAR UNDERBODY PROTECTION .
Refer to REMOVING FRONT LEFT AND RIGHT WHEEL ARCH COVER .
Refer to WITH RIGHT INSTALLATION: DETACHING THE CABLE FOR THE RIDE HEIGHT SENSOR .
Refer to RELEASING THE LEFT AND RIGHT ANTI-ROLL BAR FROM THE ANTI-ROLL BAR LINK .
Refer to DETACHING RUBBER MOUNT FROM FRONT AXLE SUPPORT .
Refer to DISCONNECTING PLUG CONNECTIONS FROM STEERING GEAR .
Refer to DISCONNECTING PURGE AIR LINE .
Refer to RELEASING ATTACHMENTS FROM THE FRONT AXLE SUPPORT .

NOTE: Perform the steps on the right and left side.

Loosen nut (1).
Pull out screw (2).
Detach the wishbone (3) from the swivel bearing.

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NOTE: Perform the steps on the right and left side.

Loosen nut (1).
Detach the track rod (2) from the swivel bearing.

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With the help of an auxiliary person, connect the special tool 0 495 817 (31 5 251) completely to the universal jack 0 490 133 (00 2 030) .
Insert the special tools 0 495 821 (31 5 255) into the telescopic supports of a profile rail pair.
Insert the special tools 0 495 819 (31 5 253) into the telescopic supports of other profile rail pair.

NOTE: In a profile rail pair, two profile rails are connected to one another by gearing.

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Align the special tools 0 495 821 (31 5 255) and 0 495 819 (31 5 253) with the front axle support .

Support the front axle support by operating the universal jack 0 490 133 (00 2 030) .

NOTE: The center of gravity of the front axle support must be positioned centrally over the workshop jack!

Secure the front axle support with special tool 0 496 080 (33 5 206) to the special tool 0 495 817 (31 5 251) .

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NOTE: RISK OF DAMAGE
Failure to comply with the specification .
Component damage .

All specifications must be observed and complied with.

When lowering and raising the front axle support, make sure that the torsion bar (1) of the electromechanical steering gear (EPS) in the area (2) does not collide with the firewall!

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NOTE: Collision with the firewall may result in damage to the electromechanical steering gear (EPS)!

If necessary, release the screws in the areas (3).
Release screws (1) (front axle support, rear).
Release screws (2) (front axle support, front).
Bend the underbody panelings in the areas (3) to one side.
Release the charge air cooler from the rubber mounts when lowering.
Completely lower and the front axle remove.

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NOTE: TECHNICAL INFORMATION
Note the information on thread repairs using Helicoil thread inserts.
For additional information see: NOTES ON REPAIRING THREADS .

Check thread for damage; if necessary, repair with Helicoil thread insert.