Necessary preliminary tasks

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2012 BMW 328xi, 2011 BMW 328xi, 2010 BMW 328xi, and 2009 BMW 328xi. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Remove REAR DIFFERENTIAL
Remove COMPLETE REAR AXLE CARRIER

If necessary, remove both brake calipers. See 34 21 745 REMOVING AND INSTALLING OR REPLACING REAR LEFT OR RIGHT BRAKE CALIPER (TEVES) with brake pad sensor (disconnect brake hose from brake line).

Remove both brake discs. See 34 21 320 REMOVING AND INSTALLING/RENEWING BOTH BRAKE DISCS .

Remove both brake lines from rear axle carrier.

Remove STABILIZER BAR (remove stabilizer links from wheel carrier).

Remove ride-height sensor with holder from rear axle carrier. See 37 14 512 REPLACING REAR RIDE-HEIGHT SENSOR .

E93 except M3: Remove vibration damper See 3310... REMOVING AND INSTALLING/REPLACING VIBRATION DAMPER or 4100... INSTALLATION SOLUTION FOR STRAIGHT SHANK/HEXAGON RIVET NUT (variant D).

Fig 1: Identifying Rear Axle Carrier

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Remove both CAMBER ARMS ON REAR AXLE CARRIER .

Remove both TOE ARMS ON REAR AXLE CARRIER .

Remove both TRAILING ARMS ON REAR AXLE CARRIER .

Remove both GUIDE ARMS ON REAR AXLE CARRIER .

Remove both CONTROL ARMS ON REAR AXLE CARRIER .

Remove both wheel carriers with output shaft and all arms from rear axle carrier.

Fig 2: Identifying Wheel Carrier

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

If necessary, unclip stoneguard (1) on left and right in marked areas and remove.

Installation:

Replace damaged stoneguard.

Fig 3: Identifying Stoneguard Unclip Areas

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.