41 21 003 Replacing A-pillar with reinforcement on left

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Observe REPAIR STAGE 3 .

Read contents of BODY, GENERAL .

Spot-weld bonding is used on this vehicle.

Observe specific PROCEDURE .

Use only an approved SPOT WELDER for repairs.

Place vehicle on straightening bench.

The following new parts are required:

Middle side frame
Outer front side frame
Door sill, outer

Fig 1: Outer A-Pillar And Middle Side Frame

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Removal:

Open WELDED CONNECTIONS in areas (1).

Open SPOT-WELDED ADHESIVE JOINTS in area (2).

Release A-pillar outer part from cavity sealing (3) and remove.

Fig 2: Outer A-Pillar And Middle Side Frame

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Roughly mark areas (1) as pictured and cut.

IMPORTANT: Cut outer panel only.

Do not damage bulkhead in area (2)!

Open WELDED CONNECTIONS in areas (3).

Open SPOT-WELDED ADHESIVE JOINTS in area (4).

Remove A-pillar reinforcement.

Fig 3: A-Pillar From Cavity Sealings Location

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Preparation of new part:

Open welded connections for components (1) which are not required. Remove components (1) which are not required.

Adjust new parts to fit with alignment bracket or universal mounting.

NOTE: When adjusting the new part, the panel thickness of the missing A-pillar outer skin must be taken into consideration depending on straightening system manufacturer.

Fig 4: Outer A-Pillar And Middle Side Frame

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Installation:

Install A-pillar with alignment bracket or universal fixture and weld in areas (1) and (2).

NOTE: When installing the new part, the panel thickness of the missing A-pillar outer skin must be taken into consideration depending on straightening system manufacturer.

Apply repair welding spot (3) to existing welding spot on vehicle. This is necessary because the adhesive between the spot flanges acts as an insulator.

Fig 5: A-Pillar Outer Skin Location

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Apply sealing compound to CAVITY SEALING (3).

Install new parts and weld in areas (1) and (2).

Fig 6: Outer A-Pillar And Middle Side Frame

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

IMPORTANT:

Vehicles with sliding/tilting sunroof: Make sure water drain hose (1) is correctly installed! (watertightness).
NOTE: In vehicles with a normal roof, a grommet is installed instead of the water drain hose. Ensure correct installation of the grommet!

Fig 7: Cavity Sealing Welding Areas

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.