51 12 001 Replacing rear bumper

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.

Remove COMPLETE REAR BUMPER .

Remove protective strip for bumper at rear center.

Remove plastic insert (1).

Version with PDC:

If necessary, feed out cable(s) and ultrasonic converter(s) from bumper.

Fig 1: Removing Plastic Insert

G03153481

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Unfasten expanding rivets (1) and remove heat shield (2).

Fig 2: Unfastening Expanding Rivets And Removing Heat Shield

G03153482

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Unfasten expanding rivets (1) and remove center section of bumper (support beam).

Installation:

Place clips in water for a while.

Fig 3: Unfastening Expanding Rivets And Removing Center Section Of Bumper

G03153483

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Only for replacing rear bumper trim

(51 12 157) and replacing rear bumper (51 12 001):

Remove rubbing strip for bumper at rear side left and right.

NOTE: The work for replacing rear bumper trim ("51 12 157)" ends here.

Unfasten screw and remove left/right shock absorber (1).

Installation:

If necessary, fit new seal (2) on shock absorber (1).

In addition on right side:

If necessary, fit new cover (3) on shock absorber (1).

Fig 4: Fitting New Cover And Seal On Shock Absorber

G03153484

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Installation:

After installing bumper, firmly tighten screw on shock absorber, left/right sides.

Tightening torque, see 51 12 2AZ in BODY EQUIPMENT - TIGHTENING TORQUES - 540i

Fig 5: Installing Bumper And Tightening Screws On Shock Absorbers

G03153485

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.