51 21 180 Removing and installing/replacing cover on outside handle

WARNING: This page does not describe the selected car, but rather 8 other vehicles, including the 2010 BMW M6, 2010 BMW 650i, 2009 BMW M6, 2009 BMW 650i, and 2008 BMW M6. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

NOTE: If replacing version with Comfort Access/CA:
In order to avoid Comfort Access malfunction, use only original BMW paints on the cover with electrically non - conducting primer.

New part (from 09/2005) is provided with electrically non-conducting primer.

Necessary preliminary tasks:

Remove outside handle

2-door Models:

Remove trim (2).

Fig 1: Removing Trim (2)

G04760970

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

4-door Models:

Remove trim (2).

Fig 2: Identifying Trim

G04760971

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

NOTE: Protect bore (1) against scratching (risk of corrosion).

Release screw (2).

Installation:

Press cover (3) slightly towards rear when screwing down (gap).

Tightening torque 51 21 8AZ . See BODY EQUIPMENT - TIGHTENING TORQUES .

Fig 3: Press Cover (3) Slightly Toward Rear

G04760979

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Remove stop pad (1).

Fig 4: Removing Stop Pad

G04760980

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Release screw (1).

Press mounting (2) back, lever out cover (3) at rear and remove in direction of arrow.

Tightening torque 51 21 7AZ . See BODY EQUIPMENT - TIGHTENING TORQUES .

Fig 5: Removing Cover

G04760981

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Installation:

Following parts of cover on outside handle (5) must not be damaged or missing:

Thread
Bridges
Bridges
Screw surface

Fig 6: Identifying Thread, Bridges And Screw Surface
Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.