Doors — removal, installation and adjustment (BMW 3 Series E46)

Removal

Front door

1. Disconnect the cable from the negative battery terminal (see chapter 5A).

2. Unscrew the bolt securing the door stop to the pillar (Fig. 11.2).



3. Unscrew the nuts securing the upper and lower door hinges (Fig. 11.3).



4. Ask an assistant to support the door, unscrew the bolt and remove the electrical connector from the rack. Remove the retainer and disconnect the connector (fig. 11.4, a, b). If necessary, unscrew the axles from the hinges.

Installation

5. Install the door in place and connect the electrical connector. Insert the connector into the pillar and secure with a bolt.

6. Place the door hinges on the studs, then tighten the mounting nuts securely. If necessary, the door can be adjusted by placing shims between the hinges and the door (these gaskets can be purchased from your BMW dealer).

7. Align the limiter rod with the rack and tighten the mounting bolt securely.

Adjustment

8. Close the door and check the door fit to the body parts. If necessary, the door position can be adjusted by loosening the hinge nuts and moving the door together with the hinges in the required direction. After completing the adjustment, tighten the hinge nuts securely. If the paint around the hinges is damaged, paint over these areas with a brush to protect them from corrosion.