71 60 560 Replacing release unit for trailer tow hitch

WARNING: This page does not describe the selected car, but rather 21 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.

Necessary preliminary tasks:

Remove Rear Bumper Trim

Disconnect plug connection (1).

Unclip cable holder (2).

Fig 1: Identifying Trailer Tow Hitch Plug Connection And Cable Holder

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Release screw (1).

Tightening torque: 5 Nm

Installation:

Replace microencapsulated screw (1).

Fig 2: Identifying Microencapsulated Screw

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NOTE: Shown without gear unit for purposes of clarity.

Fit special tool 72 0 010 (lever) so that ribs (2) of retainer (1) are inserted into special tool.

Fig 3: Identifying Ribs Of Retainer Are Inserted Into Special Tool

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IMPORTANT: Make sure special tool 72 0 010 (lever) is correctly positioned.

Special tool 72 0 010 must be inserted between trailer tow hitch (1) and gear unit (2).

Fig 4: Inserting Special Tool Between Trailer Tow Hitch And Gear Unit

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Installation:

Drive special tool 72 0 010 in direction of arrow upwards and remove retainer of gear unit (1).

Detach gear unit (1).

Fig 5: Driving Special Tool 72 0 010 In Direction Of Arrow Upwards

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If it is not possible to detach the gear unit:

Release gear unit .

Installation:

Replace sealing ring (1) and coat with oil.

Fig 6: Identifying Sealing Ring

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Installation:

Align lock (2) on gear unit to release pin (3).

Fit gear unit (1) up to stop.

Fig 7: Aligning Lock On Gear Unit To Release Pin

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IMPORTANT:

Fit retaining lug on retainer (1) as pictured.

Retainer (1) must snap firmly into correctly!

Fit special tool 72 0 010 onto retainer (1).

Fig 8: Fitting Special Tool 72 0 010 Onto Retainer

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Set retainer (1) on gear unit (2) and snap into place with special tool 72 0 010 in direction of arrow.

Installation:

Check protective cap (3) for damage and replace if necessary.

Fig 9: Setting Retainer On Gear Unit

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When replacing protective cap:

If necessary, cut off cable tie (1) from gear unit (2).

Fig 10: Identifying Cable Tie And Gear Unit

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