545i E60, N62 Starter Motor Replacement - Need CLEAR understanding!!!

[martinav]

I have had great luck finding info on youtube on some more complicated repairs in the past. I'm not getting much joy on finding a good help for the 2005 545i N62 starter replacement. I have heard stories of just six screws, remove, and replace... through dropping the whole sub frame and the bloody engine just to loosen bolts. I need some clear direction on the best method to do this. I'm going to have a serious conniption if I have to go to such extreme for a friggin starter. I've owned 3 other BMWs and have not had such a requirement for trivial replacements. Please help!

Thank you,
Rod

[turbovrGTI]

exhaust manifold on pass side needs to be removed to replace the starter....

[martinav]

is this ALL done from the bottom of the car? Do I need to tear out the wheel well liner?

Also, what else other than the manifold gasket do I need. I have to get this done in one go, without waiting on parts once I start, I need to finish the same day.

Finally DO you, or do you NOT have to remove the sub-frame and drop the engine down to do this job??

Please be sure your replies are in regards to an N62 Automatic. I think Manual is different, possibly easier.

Thank you!

[Marrkmoore]

Hey martinav, did you ever do the starter replacement job? Im about to attempt to do one on a 2008 bmw 550i. I was wondering what it entailed?

[gmak]

Here: see this video for the 530xi

This video is for the 550

Here is another 550 starter removal


There is lots of info out there if you care to look. Cheers.

[martinav]

Hey martinav, did you ever do the starter replacement job? Im about to attempt to do one on a 2008 bmw 550i. I was wondering what it entailed?

No, I did not. I never did do the job. I replaced the IVM module, and resynced my DME with the security module. It never had another starter glitch. I was enjoying driving my car, then it started up with some power issue. Electrical power issue... messes with the VVT stuff, and puts it in limp home mode. Been farting with that for weeks now with no resolve, and very little from the forums. Sorry, I wish I could be more help. But, I think the 550 and the 545 are similar. Requires enging dropping a few inches, removal of the right exhaust manifold, and a mess of work!