51 12 003 Removing And Installing Complete Rear Bumper (M3, M3 CSL/Lightweight Design)

2001 BMW Z8SECTION 51 12 003 Removing And Installing Complete Rear Bumper (M3, M3 CSL/Lightweight Design)
WARNING: This page does not describe the selected car, but rather 6 other vehicles, including the 2006 BMW M3, 2005 BMW M3, 2004 BMW M3, 2003 BMW M3, and 2002 BMW M3. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Release nuts (1) on left and right.

Installation:Β 

Observe tightening torque, refer to 51 12 3AZ in BODY EQUIPMENT - TIGHTENING TORQUES - 3-SERIES .

Fig 1: Locating Wheel Arch Liner Retaining Nuts
G03118768Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Release screw (1) on wheel arch liner (2) on left and right.

Fig 2: Releasing Screw On Wheel Arch Liner
G03118769Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Release expansion rivet (1) on left and right.

Lift out wheel arch liner (2) on left and right.

Remove bumper (3) towards rear.

Fig 3: Releasing Expansion Rivet On Left And Right
G03118770Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Park Distance Control (PDC) Option:Β 

Pull bumper (1) slightly towards rear and unclip cable holder in area (2).

Disconnect plug connections on PDC sensors (3).

Remove bumper (1) towards rear.

Fig 4: Disconnecting Plug Connections On PDC Sensors
G03118771Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Convertible With TV Option Only:Β 

Disconnect plug connection (1) of TV antenna under center console on left.

Feed out cable plug with grommet through rear panel.

Remove bumper towards rear.

Fig 5: Disconnecting Plug Connection Of TV Antenna
G03118772Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.
RENDER: 1.0x

NO RELATED

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When to See a Mechanic

Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:

  • β€’ You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
  • β€’ Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
  • β€’ The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
  • β€’ You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
  • β€’ You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.