63 21 180 Removing and installing/replacing left or right rear light

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2010 BMW 550i, 2009 BMW 550i, and 2008 BMW 550i. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

IMPORTANT: Read and comply with NOTES ON PROTECTION AGAINST ELECTROSTATIC DAMAGE (ESD PROTECTION) .

Necessary preliminary tasks:

Remove luggage compartment trim on side panel. See TRUNK TRIM PANEL ON LEFT SIDE PANEL or TRUNK TRIM PANEL ON RIGHT SIDE PANEL .

Disconnect plug connection (1).

Release nuts (2) and remove rear light (3) towards outside.

Fig 1: Identifying Plug Connection And Rear Light With Nuts

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Installation:

Observe tightening sequence for 4 retaining nuts.

Tightening torque: see 1AZ in 63 21 REAR LIGHT UNIT .

NOTE: Gap dimension to body side panel is established by means of retaining nut (4).

Avoid twisting rear light when screwing down.

Fig 2: Retaining Nuts Tightening/Loosening Sequence

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Installation:

Make sure rear light seal (1) is correctly seated, replace if necessary.

Buffer stop (3) of rear light (2) must be fitted.

Fig 3: Identifying Rear Light Seal, Stop And Rear Light

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Replacement:

If necessary, replace SOCKET HOUSING FOR REAR LIGHT .