51 12 003 Removing And Installing Complete Rear Bumper (M3, M3 CSL/Lightweight Design)

WARNING: This page does not describe the selected car, but rather 6 other vehicles, including the 2006 BMW M3, 2005 BMW M3, 2004 BMW M3, 2003 BMW M3, and 2002 BMW M3. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Release nuts (1) on left and right.

Installation:

Observe tightening torque, refer to 51 12 3AZ in BODY EQUIPMENT - TIGHTENING TORQUES - 3-SERIES .

Fig 1: Locating Wheel Arch Liner Retaining Nuts

G03118768

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Release screw (1) on wheel arch liner (2) on left and right.

Fig 2: Releasing Screw On Wheel Arch Liner

G03118769

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Release expansion rivet (1) on left and right.

Lift out wheel arch liner (2) on left and right.

Remove bumper (3) towards rear.

Fig 3: Releasing Expansion Rivet On Left And Right

G03118770

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Park Distance Control (PDC) Option:

Pull bumper (1) slightly towards rear and unclip cable holder in area (2).

Disconnect plug connections on PDC sensors (3).

Remove bumper (1) towards rear.

Fig 4: Disconnecting Plug Connections On PDC Sensors

G03118771

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Convertible With TV Option Only:

Disconnect plug connection (1) of TV antenna under center console on left.

Feed out cable plug with grommet through rear panel.

Remove bumper towards rear.

Fig 5: Disconnecting Plug Connection Of TV Antenna

G03118772

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.