Installing Reinforcement Plate

WARNING: This page does not describe the selected car, but rather 6 other vehicles, including the 2010 BMW 535xi, 2010 BMW 535i, 2009 BMW 535xi, 2009 BMW 535i, and 2008 BMW 535xi. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Clean all bonding surfaces.

Apply adhesive to reinforcement plate in area (1). Apply more adhesive in the radii to avoid air pockets.

Carefully slide reinforcement plate into component on vehicle and secure by screwing on nuts (2). Screw on nuts a few turns only.

Fig 1: Applying Adhesive To Reinforcement Plate Adhesive

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

IMPORTANT: When joining reinforcement plate, make sure there is sufficient adhesive on bonding surfaces.

Apply adhesive to reinforcement plate bonding surface (1). Apply more adhesive in the radii to avoid air pockets.

Fit new part (2).

Align new part to adjoining component and secure with gripping pliers.

Tighten nuts.

Tightening torque: 3 Nm

IMPORTANT: Check that the transition of the components is OK at the separation point. Corrections can only be made before the adhesive has hardened. Straightening at a later stage is not possible.

Fig 2: Fitting New Part

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Concluding tasks at separation point:

After adhesive has hardened:

In area visible to customer:

Cut off stud bolts with bodywork saw.

Completely remove adhesive residue in joint (1).

Round off sharp edges by grinding.

IMPORTANT: Avoid heating the separation point by excessive grinding.
Reworking by pressing not permitted!

Fig 3: Identifying Reinforcement Plate Joint

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Only the BMW-approved METAL FILLER should be used on the joint.

See METAL FILLER - INSTRUCTIONS FOR USE .

Not in area visible to customer:

Examples: The joint is covered by sill trim panel, windows, seals, etc.

Grind off stud bolts and surplus adhesive flush. Do not use metal filler. Paint area as specified in BMW Painting Handbook.

NOTE: After painting, the joint becomes visible as the adhesive shrinks. This has no affect on the quality.