BMW X3 Service & Repair Manual: Replacing rear left outer wheel arch section with reinforcement (rear side panel removed)

Follow procedure for REPAIR STAGE 3.

Read contents of BODY, GENERAL.

Spot-weld bonding is used on this vehicle. Observe specific procedure .

Use only approved SPOT-WELDING APPARATUS for repairs.

Following new body parts are required :

• (1) Wheel arch, rear, outer half
• (2) C-pillar reinforcement
• (3) Shaped part, wheel arch, outer (not shown)
• (4) Shaped part, wheel arch, inner (not shown)

Removal of the outer wheel arch section with reinforcement

Additionally removing the side wall in the side sill area: Extend severance cut (1) to lower edge of entrance.

Open weld joints in area (2) and remove entrance section.

(3) = Severance cut progression for replacement of side wall.

Mark severance cut (1) in accordance with dimension and cut.

IMPORTANT: Cut outer panel only.

Dimension a = approx. 70 mm.

Open welded connections in areas (2).

Remove cavity acoustic baffle (3).

Remove cavity sealing (1).

Open welded connections in areas (2).

Remove reinforcement on C-pillar.

Open welded connections in area (1). Remove outer section of wheel arch.

New part preparation

Tear and separate the separating cut on the C-pillar reinforcement new part according to the vehicle.

Prepare REINFORCEMENT PLATE at severance cut.

Adjust new parts in conjunction with side panel to fit.

Installation of the outer wheel arch section with reinforcement

Apply sealant to new CAVITY SEALINGS.

Install new parts and reinforcement plate and weld in place.

Installation of additional side wall section in side sill area: Weld additional section in area (1).

Join additional section similarly to side wall using bonding/riveting technology in area (2).

Install 3 punch rivets N4 in area (2).

IMPORTANT: Risk of damage to adjoining adhesive areas! Avoid excessive application of heat.