36 13 Subsequent installation of wheel-bolt lock

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2003 BMW 525i, 2002 BMW 525i, and 2001 BMW 525i. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Loosen wheel bolts.

Lift car until wheel can be turned.

Loosen wheel bolts enough for it to be easy to move wheel on wheel hub.

Turn wheel so that valve is face down.

Remove upper wheel bolt and insert wheel-bolt lock.

Fig 1: Loosening Wheel Bolts

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Possible play in wheel center and wheel weight could cause imbalance.

This imbalance is reduced to a minimum by installing the somewhat heavier wheel-bolt lock in the top wheel-bolt position.

Tighten wheel bolts crosswise and by hand in this position (wheel-bolt lock at top, valve at bottom).

Lower car and tighten wheel bolts crosswise.

For tightening torque,

refer to WHEEL AND TIRES - TIGHTENING TORQUES .

Should a customer complain about wheel imbalance after installation of wheel-bolt lock, wheels will have to be finish-balanced.

Fig 2: Tightening Wheel Bolts In Crosswise Pattern

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.