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Home >> BMW >> 2009 >> 135i 2D Convertible, Automatic >> Repair and Diagnosis >> External Pages >> Different car >> Section 991 (Rear Axle - Repair) >> Final Drive >> 33 10 010 Removing and installing/replacing rear differential

33 10 010 Removing and installing/replacing rear differential

WARNING: This page does not describe the selected car, but rather 6 other vehicles, including the 2013 BMW 128i, 2012 BMW 128i, 2011 BMW 128i, 2010 BMW 128i, and 2009 BMW 128i. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Special tools required: 

IMPORTANT: Use only approved rear differential oils! See REAR AXLE - OPERATING FLUIDS
NOTE: The following sequence was created using the E87 with N45 as an example. Differences in detail (e.g. due to vibration damper  ) in other engines are possible.

Necessary preliminary tasks: 

IMPORTANT: Observe gap between special tool 33 4 420  and dust plates.
To avoid grinding noises, make sure the dust plates are not damaged (e.g. bent).

Support rear differential with workshop jack and special tool 33 4 420 .

Release screws (1).

Release nut (2) and remove screw towards rear.

Slowly lower workshop jack and remove rear differential towards rear.

Fig 1: Identifying Special Tool (33 4 420)
G04726445Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.
IMPORTANT: Adhere to the following installation sequence in order to prevent distortion of the rear differential during installation and thereby avoid potential complaints about noise.

Installation sequence: 

  1. Install rear differential with workshop jack and special tool 33 4 420 .
  2. Insert bolts (1) (do not tighten down)
  3. Insert screw from rear and replace nut (2) (do not tighten down)
  4. Lower workshop jack
  5. Tighten down screws (1)

    See Tightening torque 33 17 1AZ in 33 17 REAR AXLE DIFFERENTIAL MOUNTINGS .

    Fig 2: Identifying Special Tool (33 4 420)
    G04726445Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.
  6. Tighten nut (2)

    See Tightening torque 33 17 1AZ in 33 17 REAR AXLE DIFFERENTIAL MOUNTINGS .

After installation: