Necessary preliminary tasks

WARNING: This page does not describe the selected car, but rather 8 other vehicles, including the 2012 BMW 328xi, 2012 BMW 328i, 2011 BMW 328xi, 2011 BMW 328i, and 2010 BMW 328xi. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Remove transmission underbody protection if necessary.
Remove microfilter housing if necessary.

IMPORTANT: From 08.06 a plastic clutch slave cylinder is installed in the E8X, E9X. See 2100006 BLEEDING CLUTCH HYDRAULICS (PLASTIC SLAVE CYLINDER) or 2152510 REMOVING AND INSTALLING/REPLACING CLUTCH SLAVE CYLINDER (PLASTIC)
Important notes on installation are described in this work step.

Unfasten nuts and remove clutch slave cylinder (pressure line remains connected).

Fig 1: Locating Clutch Slave Cylinder Nuts

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Fit special tool 21 5 030 on clutch slave cylinder (1).

Press piston rod (2) with aid of spindle completely into clutch slave cylinder.

Fig 2: Pressing Piston Rod

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Connect bleeder unit to brake fluid expansion tank.

IMPORTANT: Check relevant Operating Instructions for each device.
Charging pressure should not exceed 2 bar.

Connect bleeder hose to bleed valve (1).

Hold clutch slave cylinder in illustrated position (refer to figure) with special tool 21 5 030.

Open bleeder valve (1).

If bubble-free brake fluid emerges, retract piston rod (2) of clutch slave cylinder with aid of spindle a little and press in again.

If no air bubbles escape, close bleeder valve (1), otherwise repeat procedure.

Fig 3: Holding Clutch Slave Cylinder Using Special Tool (21 5 030)

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

IMPORTANT: Do not under any circumstances remove special tool 21 5 030 from clutch slave cylinder when brake system is pressurized.
Piston with push rod can jump out of clutch slave cylinder.

Switch off bleeder unit or remove from brake fluid expansion tank.

Slowly retract piston rod (2) of clutch slave cylinder (1) with special tool 21 5 030.

Remove special tool 21 5 030 from clutch slave cylinder (1).

Fig 4: Identifying Special Tool 21 5 030 On Clutch Slave Cylinder

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Fit clutch slave cylinder to transmission.