31 10 000 Removing and installing complete front axle (with spring struts) (M3)

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2011 BMW M3, 2010 BMW M3, 2009 BMW M3, and 2008 BMW M3. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

IMPORTANT: Before removing front axle carrier:
In order to avoid damage to lifting platform, perform weight compensation on vehicle.
Load spring strut domes with sand bags.

WARNING: SECURE ENGINE IN INSTALLATION POSITION WITH SPECIAL TOOL to prevent it from falling down.
DANGER OF POISONING if oil is ingested/absorbed through the skin!
RISK OF INJURY if oil comes into contact with eyes and skin!

IMPORTANT: Adhere to the utmost cleanliness. Do not allow any dirt to enter the hydraulic system.

Close off pipe connections with plugs.

Recycling

Catch and dispose of hydraulic fluid in a suitable container.

Observe country-specific waste-disposal regulations

Necessary preliminary tasks

Secure ENGINE IN INSTALLATION POSITION
Draw off and dispose off hydraulic fluid from fluid reservoir
Clamp off BATTERY NEGATIVE LEAD
Disengage both brake hoses from spring strut holder, remove both BRAKE CALIPERS FROM SWIVEL BEARING and tie up
Disconnect both plug connections for pulse generators and expose lines up to holder on spring strut
Disconnect both plug connections for brake pad sensor and expose lines up to holder on spring strut
Remove REINFORCEMENT PLATE
Remove REINFORCEMENT COVER ON LEFT AND RIGHT
Remove both STABILIZER LINKS FROM SPRING STRUT
Disconnect PRESSURE LINE FROM POWER STEERING GEAR
Disconnect RETURN LINE FROM POWER STEERING GEAR
Remove LOWER SECTION OF STEERING SPINDLE FROM STEERING GEAR

Release nut (1) for return line (2).

Installation:

Replace self-locking nut.

Fig 1: Identifying Return Line With Nut

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Unscrew nut (1) and bolts (2).

Disconnect pressure line (3) from front axle carrier holder.

Installation:

Replace self-locking nut.

Fig 2: Identifying Pressure Line Nut And Bolts

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Release screws (1).

Fold both holders (2) downwards.

Tie up hydraulic lines.

Installation:

Fig 3: Identifying Holder Screws

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

IMPORTANT: Guide spring struts with your hand when lowering and raising in order to avoid damaging the wheel arches.
After lowering, the spring struts must be aligned to the front axle carrier and secured in such a way that the ball joints of the control arms, tension struts and tie rod ends are not damaged.

Remove both SPRING STRUTS FROM SPRING STRUT DOME .

Lower FRONT AXLE SUPPORT .

After installation

Fill and bleed HYDRAULIC SYSTEM
Check pipe connections for leaks
Carry out wheel alignment check See 3200150 KDS CHASSIS/WHEEL ALIGNMENT CHECK WITH VEHICLE LOAD UP TO DESIGN POSITION or 3200155 KDS CHASSIS/WHEEL ALIGNMENT CHECK WITH RIDE HEIGHT MEASUREMENT WITHOUT VEHICLE LOAD if a spring strut with support bearing was or has been installed without centering pin.
Carry out STEERING ANGLE SENSOR ADJUSTMENT