32 11... Replacing gaiter for electric steering gear (EPS) on left or right

WARNING: This page does not describe the selected car, but rather 14 other vehicles, including the 2013 BMW 328xi, 2013 BMW 328i, 2012 BMW 328xi, 2012 BMW 328i, and 2011 BMW 328xi. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Spindle side:

IMPORTANT: The steering gear must be replaced If the corrosion on the spindle running surface has advanced to such an extent that the steering is acoustically conspicuous under load!

Adhere to the utmost cleanliness.

Do not regrease the spindle running surface. Sufficient special grease was used during assembly for lifetime filling.

Fig 1: Electric Steering Gear Spindle Side

G04726348

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Rack side:

IMPORTANT: The steering gear must be replaced if the polished surface of the rack is damaged (e.g. by corrosion)!

Clean rack and check surface for damage (e.g. by corrosion).

Grease rack (refer to OPERATING FLUIDS ).

Fig 2: Electric Steering Gear Back Side

G04726349

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Necessary preliminary tasks:

Remove front assembly underside protection

Clean tie rod.

Release band clamp (1).

Mark screw-in depth of tie rod (2) or count thread turns.

Unscrew bolt (3).

Twist tie rod (2) out of tie rod end (4).

Installation:

Replace microencapsulated screw.

For tightening torque refer to 32 21 2AZ in 32 21 STEERING ARMS, TIE RODS, STEERING DAMPER .

Fig 3: Clamp, Tie Rod, Bolt And Tie Rod End

G04726350

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Release ear clamp (1).

Detach gaiter (2) from tie rod (3).

Installation:

Read and follow notes/information on spindle and rack sides at the start of the document.

Clean tie rod and apply grease to taper. This ensures that the gaiter is not rotated when the tie rod is rotated.

Fig 4: Ear Clamp, Gaiter, Tie Rod And Removal Direction

G04726351

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Release water drain valve (1) (20 A/F) and replace.

Installation:

Fit O-ring (2).

For tightening torque refer to 32 00 3AZ in 32 00 STEERING .

Fig 5: Water Drain Valve And O-Ring

G04726352

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

After installation:

Perform chassis alignment check
Carry out steering angle sensor adjustment