Necessary preliminary work

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2011 BMW 328xi, 2010 BMW 335xi, 2010 BMW 328xi, 2009 BMW 335xi, and 2009 BMW 328xi. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

If necessary, remove diesel enclosure

Clean track rod.

Release band clamp (1).

Mark screw-in depth of track rod (2) or count thread turns.

Release screw (3).

Twist track rod (2) out of track rod end (4).

Installation note:

Replace microencapsulated screw.

Tightening torque 32 21 2AZ.

Fig 1: Identifying Band Clamp, Track Rod End With Screws

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NOTE: E9x only:

Heat shield is only fitted on the right side.

Release screws (1) and remove heat shield (2).

Tightening torque 32 21 4AZ.

Fig 2: Identifying Heat Shield With Screw

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Release ear clamp (1).

Detach gaiter (2) from track rod.

Installation note:

Clean rack and check surface for damage (e.g. by corrosion).

Grease rack, see STEERING AND WHEEL ALIGNMENT - OPERATING FLUIDS .

Clean track rod and apply grease to taper.

Fig 3: Removing Gaiter From Track Rod

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

NOTE: This ensures that the gaiter is not rotated when the track rod is rotated.