18 00 020 Removing and installing complete exhaust system (M54)

WARNING: This page does not describe the selected car, but rather 17 other vehicles, including the 2006 BMW 330Ci, 2006 BMW 325Ci, 2005 BMW 330xi, 2005 BMW 330i, and 2005 BMW 330Ci. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Special tools required:

31 2 220

WARNING: Scalding hazard!
Only perform this work after engine has cooled down.

Support exhaust system with jack and special tool 31 2 220 and secure against falling out.

Fig 1: Supporting Exhaust System Using Jack & Special Tool 31 2 220

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Release nuts (1) and remove connecting plate (2).

Installation:

Replace self-locking nuts.

Coat threads with copper paste.

Fig 2: Removing Connecting Plate

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Installation:

Check seals (1), replace if necessary.

Fig 3: Identifying Seals

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Release screw (1) and remove exhaust bracket.

Installation:

Slacken screws (2).

After complete installation of exhaust system, align exhaust carrier so that it is free from tension.

Tighten down screws (2).

Fig 4: Locating Exhaust Bracket Removing Screw

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Saloon/Sedan, Coupe A:

Release screws (1) and remove reinforcement plate (2).

Release screws (3). Reinforcement plate (4) is connected to exhaust system via rubber mounts and does not have to be removed.

Fig 5: Removing Reinforcement Plate

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Convertible:

Release screws and remove body reinforcement strut (1).

Fig 6: Removing Body Reinforcement Strut

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Release screws.

Reinforcement plate (1) is connected to exhaust system via rubber mounts and does not have to be removed.

Fig 7: Removing Reinforcement Plate

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Saloon/sedan, Coupe A, convertible:

If fitted, detach vacuum hose (1) from vacuum unit (2).

Compact:

There is no vacuum unit fitted here.

Fig 8: Identifying Vacuum Hose & Vacuum Unit

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Removal of exhaust system must be carried out with assistance of a second person.

Release nuts on rubber mount of rear muffler on left and right.

Lower exhaust system with lifter and remove.

Installation:

If necessary, install vibration damper, rubber mounts and both chrome exhaust pipes on new rear muffler.

Fig 9: Identifying Release Nuts On Rubber Mount Of Rear Muffler Left & Right

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.