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.

Remove FRONT ASSEMBLY UNDERSIDE PROTECTION

Clean tie rod.

Release band clamp (1).

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

Unscrew bolt (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

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Release EAR CLAMP (1).

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

Installation:

Read and follow notes/information on spindle and rack sides at the start of the document.

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.

Release water drain valve (1) (20 A/F) and replace.

Installation:

Fit O-ring (2).

Tightening torque 32 00 3AZ .

Fig 3: Identifying Water Drain Valve And O-Ring

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.