Necessary preliminary tasks

WARNING: This page does not describe the selected car, but rather 7 other vehicles, including the 2013 BMW 328xi, 2012 BMW 328xi, 2011 BMW 328xi, 2010 BMW 335xi, and 2010 BMW 328xi. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Remove both REAR COIL SPRINGS
If necessary, remove trailing link

Press clutch pedal down to floor and secure with pedal support.

NOTE: The pedal support may only be released when the brake lines are reconnected.

This prevents brake fluid from emerging from the expansion tank and air from entering the system when the brake lines are opened.

Fig 1: Locating Clutch Pedal Support

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Position an oil sump underneath to catch brake fluid.

Release banjo bolts (1), gripping brake hoses (2) at square head in the process.

Disconnect brake hoses (2) and seal off with plugs.

Installation:

Make sure brake hoses are laid without tension and with sufficient spacing to adjoining components.

Tightening torque 12 Nm.

Fig 2: Identifying Brake Hoses With Banjo Bolts

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Unclip cables for pulse generator and ride-height sensor/brake pad sensor on rear axle carrier at side.

Slacken nut (1).

Turn bracket (2) for exhaust system towards rear.

Release sheet nut and bolts (arrows).

Place heat shield on exhaust system.

Fig 3: Identifying Sheet Nut And Bolts

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

31 5 251 Engage with a 2nd person helping completely on workshop jack 00 2 030.

Insert special tools 31 5 255 in telescopic supports of a profile rail pair.

NOTE: In a profile rail pair two profile rails are connected to each by toothing.

Insert special tools 31 5 253 in telescopic supports of other profile rail pair.

Fig 4: Inserting Special Tools On Profile Rail Pair Telescopic Supports

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

NOTE: The jacking points on the left side are shown.

Align special tools 31 5 253 and 31 5 255 to rear axle support.

Support front axle support by operating workshop jack 00 2 030.

Fig 5: Aligning Special Tools (31 5 253 And 31 5 255) To Rear Axle Support

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Remove COMPRESSION STRUTS (1).

Release screws (2) and swivel/remove stop plates to one side.

Lower rear axle carrier.

Installation:

Check threads for damage; if necessary, repair with HELICOIL THREAD INSERTS .

First install COMPRESSION STRUTS (1) and then tighten down screws (2).

Tightening torque 33 33 1AZ .

Fig 6: Identifying Rear Axle Carrier Compression Strut With Screws

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.