Special tools required:

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NOTE: If the control arm is detached from the front axle carrier, it is necessary after reinstallation to carry out a wheel/chassis alignment check.

Necessary preliminary tasks:

Remove FRONT WHEEL .

Version with xenon lights:

Release nut (1) and remove jointed rod (2) from control arm (3).

Installation:

Replace self-locking nut.

Tightening torque 37 14 3AZ. See 37 14 ELECTRIC COMPONENTS

Fig 1: Identifying Jointed Rod From Control Arm Nut

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Release nut (1) and remove bolt (2) towards front.

Press swivel bearing in area of compression strut outwards and remove control arm from front axle carrier.

Installation:

Make sure that diesel enclosure is correctly positioned to side of control arm.

Replace self-locking nut.

Tightening torque 31 12 3AZ. See 31 12 CONTROL ARMS AND STRUTS

Fig 2: Identifying Bolt And Nut

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Release nut (1) approx. 3-4 thread turns; if necessary, grip hexagon.

If necessary, replace lower section 31 2 242 with lower section 31 2 246. See 31 2 240 PULLER

Press control arm off swivel bearing with special tool 31 2 240 (comprising 31 2 241, 31 2 243, 31 2 244, 31 2 245 and 31 2 246). See 31 2 240 PULLER

Unscrew nut (1) and remove control arm.

Installation:

Keep journal on ball head and bushing in swivel bearing clean and free from oil and grease.

Replace self-locking nut.

Tightening torque 31 12 4AZ. See 31 12 CONTROL ARMS AND STRUTS

Fig 3: Identifying Unscrew Nut

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

After installation:

Perform chassis alignment check. See 32 00... CHASSIS/WHEEL ALIGNMENT CHECK PROCEDURE
Carry out steering angle sensor adjustment. See 61 31 996 CARRY OUT STEERING ANGLE SENSOR ADJUSTMENT