I have this. Cheap, but did the job on my tie rod boots (which is all I've used it for).
https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B07CNRRLXR/

 

^^^
That one looks basically the same as the one in OP, and says that it's for the same type of clamps which are notably not the Oetikker type used everywhere on BMWs. It probably works fine on them, but this is the one that I use everywhere that I can reach with it.
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00K0TOYJE/

 

This looks pretty cool, and would fit into a lot of spaces where you can't get straight on to the clamp with a plier type tool.
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CL6G3HJN/

 

Respectfully, and not trying to be a total dick, but I find it hilarious that someone who has performed some of the most insane and complex mods and performance upgrades on his car needs advice on hose clamp pliers
That being said: massive respect to your E46 build.

On topic: HBM Slangenklem Tang Voor 1-Oor Slangklemmen this is exactly the one I use and it does the job just fine.

Although those which you have to screw to tighten/pinch are also very decent.

 

I have two. I started with this one but it only works if you're pinching the clamp from a straight on direction.

Amazon.com

Of course I had clearance problems one time and purchased this one which allows for pinching the clamp from two different directions.

KNIPEX - 10 99 i220 Tools - Ear Clamp Pliers, Front and Side Jaws (1099i220), Red - Amazon.com

KNIPEX - 10 99 i220 Tools - Ear Clamp Pliers, Front and Side Jaws (1099i220), Red - Amazon.com

www.amazon.com

 

You can use a standard hose clamp instead of the one that's over engineered and requires a special tool.

 

Thanks for the input.. Looks like the knipex is the way to go, cause, BMW will not make the life easy on anything.

@mega_stihl i know, even the forum got shocked

@jdstrickland when I ordered the fuel filter, the dealership provided standard hose clamps.. Today after I punched the part numbers for the steering hoses and paid, I realised it's the oetiker clamps. So challenge accepted

 

In some situations, I like to use spring clamps because it will retain clamp pressure even when the hose loses elasticity and "shrinks".
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07VPVY285/

 

Can you recommend me a proper tool that will do the job?

I had done this 4 times replacing those steering rack boots on my 2 cars, using nothing but the 2 common nails and a pliers like this.
Place the two nails close to the inner corners, then squeeze the pliers. Done.

 

But for a proper tool, I think this $8 tool has the proper jaw profile:

SPEEDWOX Long Reach End Nippers 5-1/2 Inches Mini End Cutting Pliers Fine End Cutters Precision Functional Wire Cutter for Jewelry Making Carpenter Construction Tools Nail Remover Mini Nippers - Amazon.com

SPEEDWOX Long Reach End Nippers 5-1/2 Inches Mini End Cutting Pliers Fine End Cutters Precision Functional Wire Cutter for Jewelry Making Carpenter Construction Tools Nail Remover Mini Nippers - Amazon.com

www.amazon.com

 

I bought this one for $10 off Amazon and it works great. Surprisingly well constructed for a cheap tool.

 

I use the same style as Vic and Kaboom use, that squeezes the clamp and flattens it. Takes a little getting used to, but no big deal.

 

would never go back.

t

 

The Knipex ones kaboom28 posted are the ones we have at the dealership I work at.

 

Don't have all of my tools with me here so I used a pair of end cutting pliers similar to what Sapote posted to crimp my tie rod boots last week. They did the job. Three looked like I had the actual tool. One bowed up a little in the middle but I pushed it back flat with a flathead screwdriver.

 

+1 on the nippers.

https://www.e46fanatics.com/threads/its-a-slippery-slope.1324635/?post_id=19227344#post-19227344

 

It's here, thanks again for the help!

€711 in genuine bmw parts:

 

Proud.

 

Here’s a complete guide

https://www.e46fanatics.com/threads/diy-hose-clamps-breakdown.1281970/

 

Here’s a complete guide

https://www.e46fanatics.com/threads/diy-hose-clamps-breakdown.1281970/

with all size and shape hose clamps, I have to post this Ligarex infinite length and any size hose clamps for all purpose that used on Citroen older cars.

I am sure he didn't get the training from Citroen -- took him forever for a simple task:

 

Those pliers will work well with clip reusable clamps. I have one and I use it for the steering reservoir hoses. There is a side to remove clamps and have to turn the pliers to install them.

 

Yeah, those pliers should work fine for most OEM-style clamps, especially if you are dealing with the crimp-type Oetiker clamps on BMWs. A hose end finisher is more for dress-up on AN-style or push-lock hoses; it’s not meant to replace a proper clamp in high-pressure systems like your steering. If clearance is tight, the Knipex dual-jaw version is a smart call. Just don’t forget to double-check the clamp size range before crimping. Oetikers are not too forgiving once pinched. Best of luck.