31 12 004 Removing and installing/replacing left or right lower wishbone (M6)

WARNING: This page does not describe the selected car, but rather 33 other vehicles, including the 2018 BMW M6, 2018 BMW 650i xDrive, 2018 BMW 650i, 2018 BMW 640i xDrive, and 2018 BMW 640i. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

IMPORTANT: On vehicles manufactured up to 03/2013 It is imperative that the following instruction is followed:

Before fitting a new lower wishbone, the actual version of the wishbone fitted must be determined by means of the part number (1) on the old part.

Fig 1: Identifying Wishbone Part Number
Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

With wishbones manufactured up to 03/2013 both trailing arms and both lower wishbones must always be replaced together.

Due to a change in the stiffness of the rubber mounts in the lower wishbones and trailing arms, mixing old and new versions is not permissible.

If the trailing arms and wishbones have already been replaced as a complete unit previously, fitting a wishbone on its own is allowable again.
After completing installation, it is essential to ensure that the vehicle is programmed to integration level F010-13-03-500 or later.
If necessary, program the vehicle using ISTA/P 2.49.0 or later.

IMPORTANT:

If the lower wishbone is detached from the front axle support, it is necessary after installation to carry out a wheel alignment. Carry out wheel alignment procedure. See ALIGNMENT CHECK WITH VEHICLE LOAD UP TO DESIGN POSITION or ALIGNMENT CHECK WITH RIDE HEIGHT MEASUREMENT (WITHOUT VEHICLE LOAD) .

Necessary preliminary tasks:

Remove FRONT WHEEL .
Remove COVER FROM THE STEERING BOX .

Release nut (3) and remove screw.

Tightening torque 31 12 7AZ .

Release spring strut (1) from wishbone (2).

Installation note:

Note direction of insertion of screw.

Replace screw and nut.

Tighten down screw connection in NORMAL POSITION .

Fig 2: Identifying Spring Strut, Wishbone And Nut

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Release screw (1) and remove wishbone (2) from front axle support.

Tightening torque 31 12 3AZ .

Installation note:

Note direction of insertion of screw.

Replace screw and nut.

Tighten down screw connection in NORMAL POSITION .

Fig 3: Identifying Wishbone Screws

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

IMPORTANT: Do not release wishbone from swivel bearing with impact tool.
The swivel bearing must be removed if the steel bushing moves.
Rubber boot of wishbone must not be damaged!
Do not pull stainless steel ring off journal.

Release nut (1) and remove wishbone (2) from swivel bearing.

Tightening torque 31 12 4AZ .

Installation note:

Replace self-locking nut.

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

Fig 4: Identifying Wishbone Nut

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

After installation:

Carry out wheel alignment procedure. Carry out wheel alignment procedure. See ALIGNMENT CHECK WITH VEHICLE LOAD UP TO DESIGN POSITION or ALIGNMENT CHECK WITH RIDE HEIGHT MEASUREMENT (WITHOUT VEHICLE LOAD) .