31 12 000 Removing and installing/replacing left or right control arm: Notes

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.

NOTE: If the control arm is detached from the front axle carrier, it is necessary after reinstallation to carry out a wheel/chassis alignment check.

Necessary preliminary tasks

Except M3:

Remove FRONT WHEEL
Remove front underbody protection

Except M3:

If necessary, remove jointed rod of ride-height sensor from control arm.

Fig 1: Locating Jointed Rod Of Ride-Height Sensor

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

M3 only:

Slacken nut (1).

Remove jointed rod (2) from control arm.

Installation:

Sensor lever (3) must point from ride-height sensor to left front wheel.

Tightening torque 37 14 3AZ .

Fig 2: Identifying Jointed Rod And Ride Height Sensor Lever With Nut

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Release nut (1); if necessary, grip at Torx socket (T40).

Installation:

Keep control arm to swivel bearing connection clean and free from oil and grease.

Replace self-locking nut.

Tightening torque 31 12 4AZ .

Fig 3: Identifying Control Arm Nut

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Slacken nut (1).

Remove screw towards front; if necessary remove bracket (2) with ride-height sensor.

Take off control arm.

Installation:

Screw head must point in direction of travel.

Replace self-locking nut.

Tighten down bolt connection in NORMAL POSITION .

Tightening torque 31 12 3AZ .

Fig 4: Identifying Ride-Height Sensor Bracket And Nut

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.