51 22 170 Removing and installing / replacing outside handle on left or right back 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 seal plugs (1) and (2).

Mask the area around the bore with fabric adhesive tape (risk of damage).

Installation

Fit new seal plugs.

Fig 1: Fitting New Seal Plugs

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Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Cut off foam tape around area (1) with knife (razor-sharp).

Fig 2: Cutting Off Foam Tape Around Area With Knife

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Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Insert screwdriver (A) and lift retaining tab (1) on locking plate (2) over the retaining lug (3).

Installation

Fig 3: Inserting Screwdriver And Lift Retaining Tab On Locking Plate Over Retaining Lug

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Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Using small screwdriver (B) (0.4 x 2 mm), press locking plate (2) with raised retaining tab (1) forwards.

Remove both screwdrivers.

Fig 4: Using Small Screwdriver And Pressing Locking Plate With Raised Retaining Tab Forwards

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Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

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

Fig 5: Lifting Out Lower Edge Of Outside Handle And Pulling Obliquely Downwards

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Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Installation

Insert screwdriver (B) (0.4 x 2 mm) in locking plate (2) and pull it backwards until the retaining tab (1) engages audibly.
Perform function check with opened rear door.

Fig 6: Inserting Screwdriver In Locking Plate

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Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.