Replacing and Installing Complete Front Bumper ( From 10/01 )

Removing and Installing Complete Front Bumper ( From 10/01 )


Special Tools Required:
- 00 9 321


Note:
Repair sequence only applicable to E46 cars (except compact) from model redesign (10/01).







Release screws ( 1 ) on left / right.

Lever out clips ( 2 ).







Release impact absorber screws ( 1 ).

Installation:
Tightening torque:
Bumper and Bracket to impact absorber 41 Nm
Impact absorber/bracket to body 20 Nm







Lever out wheel arch liner ( 1 ) on left / right with fishbone 00 9 321 pulling bumper ( 2 ) forwards slightly in so doing.







Firmly pull off bumper on both sides towards front. In so doing, grip primarily edge of wheel arch ( 1 ) (do not pull at sides).

Caution!
Do not pull bumper too far; there is a risk of damage to the electrical fittings (connecting cable, air horn, fog lamps).







Installation:
Retaining lugs ( 1 ) must not be damaged.







Disconnect plug connections ( 1 ) of air horn on left/right.

Remove bumper ( 3 ) towards front.







Installation:
Height of bumper is adjusted by turning hexagon socket head screw ( 1 ) on impact absorber ( 2 ).

Installation:
After sliding bumper, clip panel into place sideways if necessary (by pressing gently on edge of wheel arch to center of car)
In so doing. pay attention to alignment to turn signal lamp housing.
Carry out same work in event of slight parking bumps.







Installation:
Adjust all-around gap A between bumper and body cutout as uniformly as possible.
1. Bumper
2. Body
3. Seal