Necessary preliminary tasks

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

Except M3: Remove FRONT ASSEMBLY UNDERSIDE PROTECTION

Clean tie rod.

Release band clamp (1).

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

Release screw (3).

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

Installation:

Replace microencapsulated screw.

Tightening torque 32 21 2AZ .

Fig 1: Identifying Tie Rod With Band Clamp And Tie Rod End

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Release EAR CLAMP (1).

Detach gaiter (2) from tie rod (3).

Installation:

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

Grease rack (refer to STEERING AND WHEEL ALIGNMENT - OPERATING FLUIDS ).

Clean tie rod and apply grease to taper. This ensures that the gaiter is not rotated when the tie rod is rotated.

Fig 2: Removing Gaiter From Tie Rod

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.