51 21 170 Removing and installing or replacing outside handle from left or right front door

Special tools required: 

• 51 2 220 TORX

Necessary preliminary tasks: 

• Remove cover on outside handle, see 51 21 180 Removing and installing/replacing cover on outside handle 

Removal: 

Remove plate (1).

Installation: 

If necessary, replace faulty trim (1).

Fig 1: Plate And Trim

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Pull outside handle (2) outwards/upwards and hold.

Using special tool 51 2 220  , turn screw (3) in counterclockwise direction and thereby secure outside handle (2).

Tightening torque: 51 21 5AZ, see 51 21 FRONT DOOR LOCKS

Fig 2: Special Tool (51 2 220)

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1. Pull off outside handle (1) from rear lock actuator (2).
2. Pull off outside handle (1) downwards/outwards (in direction of arrow) from front lock actuator (3).

Fig 3: Outside Handle, Front Lock Actuator And Rear Lock Actuator

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Installation: 

Following parts on outside handle (4) must not be damaged or missing:

1. Rear mounting
2. Front mounting
3. Felt strip (if available for refitting/replacement no longer required)

Fig 4: Outside Handle

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Insert outside handle with bore hole correctly in mounting (1).

Snap rear mounting on outside handle correctly into lock actuator (2).

Fig 5: Mounting And Lock Actuator

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Release screw (1).

Remove seals (2 and 3) in direction of arrow.

If necessary, replace faulty seals (2 and 3).

Fig 6: Seals And Screw

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Grip outside handle (2) and, using special tool 51 2 220  , screw down screw (3) in clockwise direction.

Tightening torque: 51 21 5AZ, see 51 21 FRONT DOOR LOCKS

Carry out function check only with door open.

Fig 7: Special Tool (51 2 220)

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.