Replacing gaiter of transmission-side joint

WARNING: This page does not describe the selected car, but rather 6 other vehicles, including the 2012 BMW 328xi, 2011 BMW 328xi, 2010 BMW 328xi, 2009 BMW 328xi, and 2008 BMW 328xi. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Release band clamps (1, 2).

Pull back rubber gaiter (3).

Detach tulip element (4).

Installation:

Feed gaiter (3) into groove of tulip element (4).

Align band clamp (1) so that hook fastener is as at flat end of tulip element (4).

Fig 1: Removing Tulip Element

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Remove retaining ring (1).

Installation:

Replace circlip (1).

Detach tripod element (2) from shaft (3).

Pull off gaiter over shaft (3).

Carefully clean all parts with a cloth.

Fig 2: Identifying Retaining Ring And Tripod Element Of Shaft

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Installation:

Flat side (2) of tripod element (1) must point to retaining ring.

NOTE: Re-grease constant-velocity joint (tripod element) with the grease from the repair kit.

Fig 3: Identifying Flat Side Of Tripod Element

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.