Removing the complete front axle with the engine and transmission
WARNING: This page does not describe the selected car, but rather 7 other vehicles, including the 2025 BMW X4, 2024 BMW X4, 2023 BMW X4, 2022 BMW X4, and 2021 BMW X4. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
WARNING:
Car may slip off the vehicle hoist where components are supported.
Danger! Immobilization period-threatening injuries!
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:
Vehicle may slip off the vehicle hoist if the vehicle hoist is handled incorrectly.
Danger! Immobilization period-threatening injuries!
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 if the weight is distributed unevenly.
Danger! Immobilization period-threatening injuries!
Danger! Immobilization period-threatening injuries!
- Ensure specific weight compensation on the vehicle.
NOTE:
RISK OF DAMAGE
Electrostatic discharge.
Damage to or destruction of electrical components.
Electrostatic discharge.
Damage to or destruction of electrical components.
- Leave the electrical components in their original packaging until they are being installed. Only use the original packaging for returning the product. Always package removed components straight away.
- Read and comply with user information on using the associated special tool 12 7 060.
- Only tap the housings of electrical components. Do not tap pins or multi-pin connectors directly.
- Wear electrically conductive clothing and antistatic shoes (with ESD symbol).
- For additional information see: NOTES ON ESD (ELECTROSTATIC DISCHARGE) PROTECTION .
NOTE:
RISK OF DAMAGE
Damage to steering column switch cluster (SZL).
The steering column switch cluster (SZL) or the coil spring cassette can be damaged by twisting the steering wheel if the lower steering shaft (or the universal joint) is separated from the steering gear or the steering column.
Damage to steering column switch cluster (SZL).
The steering column switch cluster (SZL) or the coil spring cassette can be damaged by twisting the steering wheel if the lower steering shaft (or the universal joint) is separated from the steering gear or the steering column.
- After separating the lower steering shaft (or the universal joint) from the steering gear or from the steering column, secure the steering wheel against twisting.
NOTE:
TECHNICAL INFORMATION
See NOTES FOR WORKING ON THE COOLING SYSTEM .
See NOTES FOR WORKING ON THE COOLING SYSTEM .
NOTE:
TECHNICAL INFORMATION
Immobilization period-long fill of coolant!
Do not reuse used coolant.
The coolant must be replaced when replacing and removing components which depend on the anti-corrosion effect of the coolant. The cooling system must therefore be emptied and refilled.
In the case of other removal work involving the draining of part quantities of coolant, the coolant level must be topped up with new coolant.
Immobilization period-long fill of coolant!
Do not reuse used coolant.
The coolant must be replaced when replacing and removing components which depend on the anti-corrosion effect of the coolant. The cooling system must therefore be emptied and refilled.
In the case of other removal work involving the draining of part quantities of coolant, the coolant level must be topped up with new coolant.
NOTE:
TECHNICAL INFORMATION
Filling without the vacuum filling equipment (watering can filling) is not permitted .
Failure to observe these instructions may result in component or engine damage.
The filling specification must be observed.
It is essential to visually check the vacuum filling equipment before use to check that it is functioning correctly and clean.
It is not permissible to operate the vehicle if the filling procedure has not been fully completed. Otherwise there may be functional limitations (degradation) or overheating.
A bleeding procedure is required after a part has been exchanged in the cooling system and/or after refilling the cooling system.
Filling without the vacuum filling equipment (watering can filling) is not permitted .
Failure to observe these instructions may result in component or engine damage.
The filling specification must be observed.
It is essential to visually check the vacuum filling equipment before use to check that it is functioning correctly and clean.
It is not permissible to operate the vehicle if the filling procedure has not been fully completed. Otherwise there may be functional limitations (degradation) or overheating.
A bleeding procedure is required after a part has been exchanged in the cooling system and/or after refilling the cooling system.
NOTE:
TECHNICAL INFORMATION
Collect and dispose of emerging fluids. Observe country-specific waste disposal regulations.
Collect and dispose of emerging fluids. Observe country-specific waste disposal regulations.
Preliminary work
- Refer to MOVING THE HOOD TO THE SERVICE POSITION .
- Refer to SUCTIONING THE AIR CONDITIONING .
- Refer to REMOVING THE ENGINE COMPARTMENT COVER PANEL IN THE REAR LEFT AND RIGHT .
- Refer to DEACTIVATING ELECTRICAL SYSTEM .
- Refer to REMOVING THE ACOUSTIC COVER .
- Refer to REMOVING THE TOP RIGHT AND LEFT COVER IN THE ENGINE COMPARTMENT .
- Refer to REMOVING FRONT CROSS CONNECTION .
- Refer to REMOVING THE LEFT AND RIGHT FRONT-END STRUT .
- Refer to REMOVING MOUNT OF HOOD SEAL ON THE LEFT AND RIGHT .
- Refer to REMOVING THE REAR TOP CROSS CONNECTION .
- Refer to REMOVING THE FAN COWL .
- Refer to REMOVING THE FRONT LEFT AND RIGHT WHEELS .
- Refer to REMOVING THE COVER OF THE STEERING ASSEMBLY ON THE LEFT AND RIGHT .
- Refer to REMOVING THE FRONT UNDERBODY PROTECTION .
- Refer to REMOVING THE WHEEL ARCH COVER ON THE FRONT LEFT AND BOTTOM RIGHT .
- Refer to REMOVING THE CENTER UNDERBODY PROTECTION .
- Refer to IF INSTALLED: REMOVING THE UNDERBODY PLANKING OF THE TRANSMISSION ON THE SIDE .
- Refer to REMOVING REAR UNDERBODY PROTECTION .
- Refer to REMOVING INTAKE SILENCER HOUSING .
- Refer to REMOVING CLEAN AIR PIPE .
- Refer to DRAINING THE COOLANT FROM THE HIGH-TEMPERATURE COOLING SYSTEM .
- Refer to DRAINING THE COOLANT FROM THE LOW-TEMPERATURE COOLING SYSTEM .
- Refer to REMOVING THE DME CONTROL UNIT .
- Refer to REMOVING THE INTEGRATED POWER SUPPLY MODULE (PDM) .
- Refer to REMOVING CONTROL UNIT BRACKET .
- Refer to DISCONNECTING THE FUEL LINE AND THE TANK VENT LINE .
- Refer to DISCONNECTING VACUUM LINE .
- Refer to REMOVING THE INTAKE LINE IN THE FRONT .
- Refer to REMOVING A/C CONDENSER .
- Refer to DISCONNECTING THE COOLANT LINES .
- Refer to DISCONNECTING THE POSITIVE BATTERY CABLE FROM THE FRONT POWER DISTRIBUTION .
- Refer to REMOVING THE REAR SECTION OF THE WHEEL ARCH COVER ON THE FRONT LEFT AND RIGHT .
- Refer to DISCONNECTING THE PLUG CONNECTION AT RIDE HEIGHT SENSOR AT FRONT .
- Refer to RELEASING THE FRONT LEFT AND RIGHT BRAKE CALIPERS .
- Refer to REMOVING TANK COVER ON LEFT AND RIGHT .
- Refer to REMOVING THE CONNECTING SUPPORT FROM THE TUNNEL .
- Refer to REMOVING EXHAUST SYSTEM .
- Refer to REMOVING THE HEAT SHIELDS .
- Refer to REMOVING THE COMPLETE PROP SHAFT .
- Refer to DETACHING STEERING SHAFT AT BOTTOM FROM STEERING GEAR .
- Refer to RELEASING THE EPS WIRING HARNESS FROM THE ELECTROMECHANICAL STEERING GEAR .
- Refer to REMOVING THE RETAINING PLATES .
- Refer to PREPARING THE MOBILE TABLE LIFT .
- Refer to POSITIONING THE MOBILE TABLE LIFT .
WARNING:
Car may slip off the vehicle hoist if the weight is distributed unevenly.
Danger! Immobilization period-threatening injuries!
Danger! Immobilization period-threatening injuries!
- Ensure specific weight compensation on the vehicle.
NOTE:
Perform the steps on the right and left side.
- Loosen screws (1)
.
- Unscrew the bolts (1)
on the transmission bearing support (2)
.
- Release nut (1) .
- Feed out the ground cable (2)
and set aside.
- Loosen screws (1) .
Partially releasing left and right crash levers
NOTE:
The following step(s) must be performed if the specified component(s) is/are installed.
NOTE:
Perform the steps on the right and left side.
- Release nut (1) .
- Remove the bolt (2) .
Releasing the adapter for the front axle support from the front axle support on the right and left
NOTE:
Perform the steps on the right and left side.
- Loosen screws (1) .
- Loosen screws (1) to (3) .
- Completely lower the front axle with the combustion engine and transmission.
WARNING:
Car may slip off the vehicle hoist where components are supported.
Danger! Immobilization period-threatening injuries!
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:
Vehicle may slip off the vehicle hoist if the vehicle hoist is handled incorrectly.
Danger! Immobilization period-threatening injuries!
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 if the weight is distributed unevenly.
Danger! Immobilization period-threatening injuries!
Danger! Immobilization period-threatening injuries!
- Ensure specific weight compensation on the vehicle.
NOTE:
RISK OF DAMAGE
Electrostatic discharge.
Damage to or destruction of electrical components.
Electrostatic discharge.
Damage to or destruction of electrical components.
- Leave the electrical components in their original packaging until they are being installed. Only use the original packaging for returning the product. Always package removed components straight away.
- Read and comply with user information on using the associated special tool 12 7 060.
- Only tap the housings of electrical components. Do not tap pins or multi-pin connectors directly.
- Wear electrically conductive clothing and antistatic shoes (with ESD symbol).
- For additional information see: NOTES ON ESD (ELECTROSTATIC DISCHARGE) PROTECTION .
NOTE:
RISK OF DAMAGE
Damage to steering column switch cluster (SZL).
The steering column switch cluster (SZL) or the coil spring cassette can be damaged by twisting the steering wheel if the lower steering shaft (or the universal joint) is separated from the steering gear or the steering column.
Damage to steering column switch cluster (SZL).
The steering column switch cluster (SZL) or the coil spring cassette can be damaged by twisting the steering wheel if the lower steering shaft (or the universal joint) is separated from the steering gear or the steering column.
- After separating the lower steering shaft (or the universal joint) from the steering gear or from the steering column, secure the steering wheel against twisting.
NOTE:
TECHNICAL INFORMATION
See NOTES FOR WORKING ON THE COOLING SYSTEM .
See NOTES FOR WORKING ON THE COOLING SYSTEM .
NOTE:
TECHNICAL INFORMATION
Immobilization period-long fill of coolant!
Do not reuse used coolant.
The coolant must be replaced when replacing and removing components which depend on the anti-corrosion effect of the coolant. The cooling system must therefore be emptied and refilled.
In the case of other removal work involving the draining of part quantities of coolant, the coolant level must be topped up with new coolant.
Immobilization period-long fill of coolant!
Do not reuse used coolant.
The coolant must be replaced when replacing and removing components which depend on the anti-corrosion effect of the coolant. The cooling system must therefore be emptied and refilled.
In the case of other removal work involving the draining of part quantities of coolant, the coolant level must be topped up with new coolant.
NOTE:
TECHNICAL INFORMATION
Filling without the vacuum filling equipment (watering can filling) is not permitted .
Failure to observe these instructions may result in component or engine damage.
The filling specification must be observed.
It is essential to visually check the vacuum filling equipment before use to check that it is functioning correctly and clean.
It is not permissible to operate the vehicle if the filling procedure has not been fully completed. Otherwise there may be functional limitations (degradation) or overheating.
A bleeding procedure is required after a part has been exchanged in the cooling system and/or after refilling the cooling system.
Filling without the vacuum filling equipment (watering can filling) is not permitted .
Failure to observe these instructions may result in component or engine damage.
The filling specification must be observed.
It is essential to visually check the vacuum filling equipment before use to check that it is functioning correctly and clean.
It is not permissible to operate the vehicle if the filling procedure has not been fully completed. Otherwise there may be functional limitations (degradation) or overheating.
A bleeding procedure is required after a part has been exchanged in the cooling system and/or after refilling the cooling system.
NOTE:
TECHNICAL INFORMATION
Collect and dispose of emerging fluids. Observe country-specific waste disposal regulations.
Collect and dispose of emerging fluids. Observe country-specific waste disposal regulations.
Preliminary work
- Refer to AVOIDING DAMAGE TO THE STARTER MOTOR GENERATOR DUE TO ESCAPING COOLANT .
- Refer to MOVING THE HOOD TO THE SERVICE POSITION .
- Refer to SUCTIONING THE AIR CONDITIONING .
- Refer to REMOVING THE ENGINE COMPARTMENT COVER PANEL IN THE REAR LEFT AND RIGHT .
- Refer to DEACTIVATING THE 48 V ELECTRICAL SYSTEM .
- Refer to DEACTIVATING ELECTRICAL SYSTEM .
- Refer to REMOVING THE ACOUSTIC COVER .
- Refer to REMOVING THE TOP RIGHT AND LEFT COVER IN THE ENGINE COMPARTMENT .
- Refer to REMOVING FRONT CROSS CONNECTION .
- Refer to REMOVING THE LEFT AND RIGHT FRONT-END STRUT .
- Refer to REMOVING MOUNT OF HOOD SEAL ON THE LEFT AND RIGHT .
- Refer to REMOVING THE REAR TOP CROSS CONNECTION .
- Refer to REMOVING THE FAN COWL .
- Refer to REMOVING THE FRONT LEFT AND RIGHT WHEELS .
- Refer to REMOVING THE COVER OF THE STEERING ASSEMBLY ON THE LEFT AND RIGHT .
- Refer to REMOVING THE FRONT UNDERBODY PROTECTION .
- Refer to REMOVING THE WHEEL ARCH COVER ON THE FRONT LEFT AND BOTTOM RIGHT .
- Refer to REMOVING THE CENTER UNDERBODY PROTECTION .
- Refer to IF INSTALLED: REMOVING THE UNDERBODY PLANKING OF THE TRANSMISSION ON THE SIDE .
- Refer to REMOVING REAR UNDERBODY PROTECTION .
- Refer to REMOVING INTAKE SILENCER HOUSING .
- Refer to REMOVING CLEAN AIR PIPE .
- Refer to DRAINING THE COOLANT FROM THE HIGH-TEMPERATURE COOLING SYSTEM .
- Refer to DRAINING THE COOLANT FROM THE LOW-TEMPERATURE COOLING SYSTEM .
- Refer to REMOVING THE DME CONTROL UNIT .
- Refer to REMOVING THE INTEGRATED POWER SUPPLY MODULE (PDM) .
- Refer to REMOVING THE CONTROL UNIT HOLDER .
- Refer to DISCONNECTING THE FUEL LINE AND THE TANK VENT LINE .
- Refer to DISCONNECTING VACUUM LINE .
- Refer to DISCONNECTING REFRIGERANT LINE ON THE CONNECTING PIECE .
- Refer to REMOVING A/C CONDENSER .
- Refer to RELEASING THE POSITIVE BATTERY CABLES .
- Refer to REMOVING THE REAR SECTION OF THE WHEEL ARCH COVER ON THE FRONT LEFT AND RIGHT .
- Refer to DISCONNECTING THE PLUG CONNECTION AT RIDE HEIGHT SENSOR AT FRONT .
- Refer to RELEASING THE FRONT LEFT AND RIGHT BRAKE CALIPERS .
- Refer to REMOVING TANK COVER ON LEFT AND RIGHT .
- Refer to REMOVING THE CONNECTING SUPPORT FROM THE TUNNEL .
- Refer to REMOVING EXHAUST SYSTEM .
- Refer to REMOVING THE HEAT SHIELDS .
- Refer to REMOVING THE COMPLETE PROP SHAFT .
- Refer to DETACHING STEERING SHAFT AT BOTTOM FROM STEERING GEAR .
- Refer to RELEASING THE EPS WIRING HARNESS FROM THE ELECTROMECHANICAL STEERING GEAR .
- Refer to REMOVING THE RETAINING PLATES .
- Refer to PREPARING THE MOBILE TABLE LIFT .
- Refer to POSITIONING THE MOBILE TABLE LIFT .
WARNING:
Car may slip off the vehicle hoist if the weight is distributed unevenly.
Danger! Immobilization period-threatening injuries!
Danger! Immobilization period-threatening injuries!
- Ensure specific weight compensation on the vehicle.
NOTE:
Perform the steps on the right and left side.
- Loosen screws (1)
.
- Unscrew the bolts (1)
on the transmission bearing support (2)
.
- Release nut (1) .
- Feed out the ground cable (2)
and set aside.
- Loosen screws (1) .
Partially releasing left and right crash levers
NOTE:
The following step(s) must be performed if the specified component(s) is/are installed.
NOTE:
Perform the steps on the right and left side.
- Release nut (1) .
- Remove the bolt (2) .
Releasing the adapter for the front axle support from the front axle support on the right and left
NOTE:
Perform the steps on the right and left side.
- Loosen screws (1) .
- Loosen screws (1) to (3) .
- Completely lower the front axle with the combustion engine and transmission.