51 21 170 Removing and installing or replacing outside handle from left or right front door

Driver's Side: 

Remove lock cylinder completely from front door. Refer to 51 21 140 REMOVING AND INSTALLING/REPLACING COMPLETE LOCK CYLINDER .

Passenger Side: 

Remove cover on outside handle. 51 21 180 REMOVING AND INSTALLING/REPLACING COVER ON OUTSIDE HANDLE .

Removal: 

Slacken nut (1) on outside handle (2) (do not release fully).

Fig 1: Locating Nut On Outside Handle

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Installation: 

Contact surface (3) of outside handle (2) must rest without play against lock actuator (4).

Tightening torque, (3.2 N.m.).

Pull outside handle (2) as far outwards/upwards as possible and secure in this position with a screwdriver (3).

Fig 2: Aligning And Securing Outside Handle

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

1. Pull off outside handle (1) from rear lock actuator (2).
2. Pull off outside handle (1) in lowest setting (as shown in illustration) from front lock actuator (4).

Fig 3: Removing Outside Handle From Rear Lock Actuator

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Installation: 

Old outer frame (1) of screw cover must be fitted (damage to paint).

Press lock actuator (2) with a screwdriver (3) fully into "Open" setting.

Fig 4: Pressing Lock Actuator With A Screwdriver

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Mount outside handle in this position.

Installation: 

Supports (1) and (2) on outside handle (3) must not be damaged.

Fig 5: Identifying Supports On Outside Handle

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Installation: 

If necessary, replace faulty seals (1) and (2) for outside handle.

Fig 6: Locating Seals For Outside Handle

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Installation: 

Carry out function check only with door open.