33 32 071 Replacing One Upper Control Arm

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2010 BMW M5, 2009 BMW M5, 2008 BMW M5, 2007 BMW M5, and 2006 BMW M5. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

IMPORTANT: The control arm to wheel carrier connection has been changed from a conical seat to a ball seat! Spare parts are offered for both variants.

To ensure a correct bolt connection, check before installing the control arm whether the seat for the control arm matches the seat for the wheel carrier.

Variants:

Conical seat
Ball seat

Fig 1: Identifying Conical Seat And Ball Seat

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

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

Necessary preliminary tasks:

Remove rear wheel.

E61: Deactivate and empty air spring system

Shown on vehicle at rear right:

Unclip line for pulse generator (1) from holder (2).

Only on right side: Unclip line for brake pad wear sensor (3) from holder (2).

Fig 2: Identifying Pulse Generator, Holder And Brake Pad Wear Sensor

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Unscrew nut (1).

Remove control arm at top from wheel carrier.

Installation:

Keep control arm to wheel carrier connection clean and free from oil and grease.

Replace self-locking nut.

Tighten to specified torque. See 33 32 8AZ in REAR AXLE -- TORQUE SPECIFICATIONS .

Fig 3: Identifying Nut

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Unscrew nut (1).

Pull out bolt (2) and remove control arm.

Installation:

Note insertion direction of screw.

Replace self-locking nut.

Tighten bolt connection in normal position.

Tighten to specified torque. See 33 32 14AZ in REAR AXLE -- TORQUE SPECIFICATIONS .

Fig 4: Pulling Bolt And Removing Control Arm

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Replacement:

Unclip holder on control arm.

After installation:

E61: Activate and fill air suspension system
Perform chassis alignment check