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

Necessary preliminary tasks: 

• Remove cover on outside handle  . See 51 21 180 Removing and installing/replacing cover on outside handle  or 51 21 181 Removing and installing/replacing cover on outside handle with lock cylinder .

If necessary, lay outside door handle light (1) slightly to one side.

Pull out outside handle (2) and feed out in direction of arrow.

Version with Comfort Access/CA: 

Carefully feed out outside handle (2) and disconnect associated plug connection.

Fig 1: Identifying Outside Door Handle Light And Outside Handle

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Installation: 

Locator (1) must not be damaged.

Version with Comfort Access/CA: 

Seal (2) must not be damaged.

Fig 2: Identifying Locator And Seal

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Installation: 

Seals (1 and 2) must not be damaged.

If necessary, pull lock actuator (3) outwards until it engages retaining clasp (4).

Install outside handle and insert correctly into lock actuator (3).

Outside handle is in the correct position only after the cover has been fitted on the outside handle.

Carry out function check only with door open.

Fig 3: Identifying Lock Actuator And Retaining Clasp

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

If replacing version with comfort access/CA: 

Reset CAS control unit with diagnosis system or by disconnecting and connecting battery.