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

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2005 BMW 545i and 2004 BMW 545i. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Necessary Preliminary Tasks:

Remove luggage compartment trim on side panel. Refer to 51 47 210 REMOVING AND INSTALLING/REPLACING TRUNK TRIM PANEL ON LEFT SIDE PANEL and 51 47 220 REMOVING AND INSTALLING/REPLACING TRUNK TRIM PANEL ON RIGHT SIDE PANEL .

Unfasten plug connection (1) and disconnect.

Release nuts (2) and remove exterior rear light (3).

Fig 1: Locating Exterior Rear Light

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Installation:

Observe tightening sequence for 4 retaining nuts.

Tightening torque, refer to 63 21 1AZ in LIGHTS - TIGHTENING TORQUES - 545I (4.4L) E60 .

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

Avoid twisting rear light when screwing down.

Fig 2: Rear Light 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: Installing Retaining Nut

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Replacement:

If necessary, replace socket housing for rear light. Refer to 63 21 055 REPLACING A SOCKET HOUSING FOR LEFT OR RIGHT REAR LIGHT .