Important!
This replacement procedure can be used for:
BMW 3 Saloon (E46) 316 i, BMW 3 Saloon (E46) 328 i, BMW 3 Saloon (E46) 320 d, BMW 3 Saloon (E46) 323 i, BMW 3 Saloon (E46) 320 i, BMW 3 Saloon (E46) 330 d, BMW 3 Saloon (E46) 330 i, BMW 3 Saloon (E46) 320 i, BMW 3 Saloon (E46) 325 i, BMW 3 Saloon (E46) 316 i, BMW 3 Saloon (E46) 318 i, BMW 3 Saloon (E46) 320 d, BMW 3 Saloon (E46) 318 d, BMW 3 Saloon (E46) 316 i, BMW 3 Saloon (E46) 330 d, BMW 3 Saloon (E46) 318 d, BMW 3 Saloon (E46) 316 i, BMW 3 Saloon (E46) 320 d View more

The steps may slightly vary depending on the car design.

How to change tie rod end BMW E46 [TUTORIAL AUTODOC]

video
All the parts you need to replace – Track Rod End for 3 Saloon (E46) and other BMW models
How to change Track rod end on BMW E46 320 d – step-by-step instructions for straightforward car repair
Track rod end
How to change Rod Assembly on BMW E46 320 d – step-by-step instructions for straightforward car repair
Rod Assembly
How to change Repair Kit, tie rod on BMW E46 320 d – step-by-step instructions for straightforward car repair
Repair Kit, tie rod
How to change Mounting Kit, tie rod end on BMW E46 320 d – step-by-step instructions for straightforward car repair
Mounting Kit, tie rod end
Tools
Replacement: track rod end – BMW E46. List of the tools you'll need:
Wire brush
WD-40 spray
Brake cleaner
Copper grease
Combination spanner #13
Combination spanner #22
Combination spanner #24
Drive socket # 18
Wheel impact socket #17
Ratchet wrench
Torque wrench
Hammer
Vernier caliper
Ball joint puller
Wheel chock
Replacement: track rod end – BMW E46. AUTODOC experts recommend:
  • Replace tie rod ends in pairs.
  • The replacement procedure is identical for the right and left tie rod ends.
  • Please note: all work on the car – BMW E46 – should be done with the engine switched off.
Carry out replacement in the following order:
  1. Step 1
    How to change Track Rod End on BMW E46 1998 - free PDF and video manuals
    Secure the wheels with chocks.
  2. Step 2
    Loosen the wheel mounting bolts. Use wheel impact socket #17.
    Step 3
    How to replace BMW 3 Saloon (E46) 320 d 1999 Track Rod End - step-by-step manuals and video guides
    Raise the front of the car and secure on supports.
  3. Step 4
    BMW E46 320d 2.0 2000 Track Rod End replacement: free workshop manuals
    Unscrew the wheel bolts.
    Replacement: track rod end – BMW E46. Tip:
    To avoid injury, hold up the wheel when unscrewing the bolts.
  4. Step 5
    Changing Track Rod End on BMW 3 Saloon (E46) 320i 2.2 2001 by yourself
    Remove the wheel.
  5. Step 6
    How to remove BMW 3 SERIES 318 i 2002 Track Rod End - online easy-to-follow instructions
    When deinstalling, mark or measure the precise position of the ball joint on the track rod, or count the number of turns in order to prevent misalignment afterward. Use a vernier caliper.
  6. Step 7
    How to replace Track Rod End on BMW 3 Saloon (E46) 2003: download PDF manuals and video instructions
    Loosen the lock nut securing the tie rod end to the tie rod. Use a combination spanner #24.
  7. Step 8
    How hard is it to do yourself: Track Rod End replacement on BMW E46 318i 2.0 2004 - download illustrated guide
    Clean the fastener connecting the tie rod end to the steering knuckle. Use a wire brush. Use WD-40 spray.
  8. Step 9
    Need to know how to renew Track Rod End on BMW 3 SERIES 2005? This free workshop manual will help you to do it yourself
    Unscrew the end fastening nut to the steering knuckle. Use a drive socket #18. Use a ratchet wrench.
  9. Step 10
    Changing of Track Rod End on BMW E46 1998 won't be an issue if you follow this illustrated step-by-step guide
    Disconnect the tie rod end from the steering knuckle. Use a ball joint puller. Use a hammer.
  10. Step 11
    BMW 3 SERIES 316i 1.8 Track Rod End replacement: online guides and video tutorials
    Screw the end out of the tie rod. Use a combination spanner #13. Use a combination spanner #22.
  11. Step 12
    Replacing Track Rod End on BMW E46 2000 320 d by yourself
    Screw on a new tie rod end.
    Replacement: track rod end – BMW E46. AUTODOC recommends:
    While installing the steering rod end remember to make the same number of turns or to leave the same length of thread showing as per your measurements.
  12. Step 13
    3 Saloon (E46) 318 i 2001 Track Rod End DIY replacement workshop manual
    Connect the tie rod end to the steering knuckle.
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DIY BMW 3 Saloon (E46) Track Rod End replacement - online guide
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