33 31 000 Removing and installing complete rear axle carrier

WARNING: This page does not describe the selected car, but rather 11 other vehicles, including the 2013 BMW 328i, 2012 BMW 328i, 2011 BMW 328i, 2010 BMW 335i, and 2010 BMW 328i. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Special tools required:

00 2 040
33 4 491
33 4 492

WARNING: Danger to life!

Mount securing fixture for vehicle on lifting platform to prevent the vehicle from slipping off or tilting down.

Necessary preliminary tasks:

Remove rear wheels
Remove propeller shaft
Remove both rear coil springs
Remove pulse generator on both sides from wheel carrier , unclip line from control arm and rear axle carrier
Disconnect plug connection from brake pad sensor, unclip line from control arm and rear axle carrier
Disconnect plug connection from ride-height sensor and unclip line from rear axle carrier
Disengage handbrake cable on both sides from expander lock and then remove from hanging hooks
Remove shock absorber on both sides from camber arm rubber mount

Press clutch pedal down to floor and secure with pedal support.

NOTE: The pedal support may only be released when the brake lines are reconnected.

This prevents brake fluid from emerging from the expansion tank and air from entering the system when the brake lines are opened.

Fig 1: Clutch Pedal And Pedal Support

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Position an oil tray underneath to catch brake fluid.

Release banjo bolts (1), gripping brake hoses (2) at square head in the process.

Disconnect brake hoses (2) and seal off with plugs.

Installation:

Make sure brake hoses are laid without tension and with sufficient spacing to adjoining components.

For tightening torque refer to 34 32 1AZ in 34 32 BRAKE LINES .

Fig 2: Brake Hoses And Banjo Bolts

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

WARNING: Danger of injury!

Failure to comply with the following instructions may result in the vehicle slipping off the lifting platform and critically injuring other persons.

When supporting components, make sure that

the vehicle can no longer be raised or lowered
the vehicle does not lift off the locating plates on the lifting platform

Insert special tools 33 4 491 and 33 4 492 into corresponding receptacle of special tool 00 2 040.

Align special tool 00 2 040 to rear axle carrier.

If necessary, lower special tool 33 3 274.

Support rear axle carrier by raising special tool 00 2 040.

Fig 3: Special Tools (33 4 491), (33 3 274), (00 2 040) And (33 4 492)

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Remove tension struts.

Release screws (1) and swivel/remove stop plates (2) to one side.

Lower rear axle completely.

Installation:

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

First install tension struts and then tighten down bolts (1).

For tightening torque refer to 33 33 1AZ in 33 33 REAR AXLE SUSPENSION .

Fig 4: Screws And Swivel/Remove Stop Plates

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

After installation: