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

WARNING: This page does not describe the selected car, but rather 7 other vehicles, including the 2003 BMW 540i, 2002 BMW 540i, 2001 BMW 540i, 2000 BMW 540i, and 1999 BMW 540i. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Lift out sealing plug.

Installation:

Fit new seal plugs.

Fig 1: Fitting New Seal Plugs

G03153596

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Insert special tool 51 3 203 and lever retaining tab (1) on locking plate (2) over the retaining lug (3).

Fig 2: Inserting Special Tool And Lever Retaining Tab On Locking Plate Over Retaining Lug

G03153597

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Insert special tool 51 3 201 in sliding bore on locking plate (2) and press this forwards with raised retaining tab (1).

Remove both special tools.

Fig 3: Removing Both Special Tools

G03153598

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Lift out lower edge of outside handle and pull obliquely downwards to remove.

Fig 4: Lifting Out Lower Edge Of Outside Handle

G03153599

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Installation:

Insert special tool 51 3 201 in sliding bore (1) of locking plate (2) and pull it backwards.

Check function.

Fig 5: Inserting Special Tool In Sliding Bore Of Locking Plate

G03153600

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.