51 43 291 Removing and installing/replacing drive unit for comfort operation

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2008 BMW 535xi. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Necessary preliminary tasks:

Remove luggage compartment floor trim panel (with storage pack, rear only). See REMOVING AND INSTALLING/REPLACING LUGGAGE COMPARTMENT FLOOR TRIM PANEL (WITH STOWAGE PACK) or REMOVING AND INSTALLING/REPLACING LUGGAGE COMPARTMENT FLOOR TRIM PANEL
Remove PANELS FOR ROOF PILLAR (D-pillar) on left
Remove TRIM FROM REAR APRON

Disconnect plug connection (1).

Unfasten cable tie (2).

Release screws (3 and 4).

3 Drive unit with gearing on cross-member
Tightening torque 51 43 5AZ .
4 Drive unit on gearing
Tightening torque 51 43 6AZ .

Fig 1: Identifying Plug Connection And Cable Tie

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Unscrew nuts (1).

Raise cover (2), press drive unit (3) with gearing (4) inwards slightly and detach drive unit (3) from gearing (4).

Fig 2: Identifying Cover, Drive Unit And Gearing

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Installation:

Toothing (1 and 4) on drive unit (2) and gearing (3) must not be damaged.

Fig 3: Identifying Toothing On Drive Unit And Gearing

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Replacement up to build date 06/2006:

NOTE: A capacitor is integrated in the drive on the new part.
Adapter lead (1) with capacitor must not be fitted.
If necessary, remove adapter lead (1) and connect plug (2) of vehicle wiring harness directly to plug (3) of drive.

Fig 4: Connecting Vehicle Wiring Harness Plug To Drive Plug

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.