33 32 086 Removing and installing/replacing bottom left (or right) control arm

WARNING: This page is about a different variant/trim than selected.

NOTE: If the control arm is detached from the rear axle carrier/trailing arm, it is necessary after reinstallation to carry out a wheel/chassis alignment check.

Necessary preliminary tasks

Remove REAR WHEEL .
On R55, R56 remove underbody panelling.
On R57 remove CRUCIFORM REINFORCEMENT .
Lower rear exhaust system.

NOTE: Removal of heat shield described by way of example on the MINI ONE. There may be differences in detail in the case of other models.

Remove sheet metal nuts (1) and screws (2).

Remove heat shield (3).

Fig 1: Identifying Heat Shield With Sheet Metal Nuts And Screws

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Mark position of eccentric adjustment washer to trailing arm to simplify subsequent adjustment of rear axle.

Release screw (1).

Tightening torque 33 32 2AZ .

Installation note:

Refit eccentric adjustment washer.

Tighten screw connection in NORMAL POSITION .

Fig 2: Identifying Screws And Nut Of Control Arm

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Slacken nut (2).

Tightening torque 33 32 3AZ .

Remove screw and then remove control arm.

Installation note:

Replace self-locking nut.

Tighten bolt connection in NORMAL POSITION .

After installation

Perform CHASSIS/WHEEL ALIGNMENT CHECK