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

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2005 BMW 525i and 2004 BMW 525i. 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. See 51 47 210 REMOVING AND INSTALLING/REPLACING TRUNK TRIM .

Unfasten plug connection (1) and disconnect.

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

Fig 1: Releasing Nuts And Removing Exterior Rear Light

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Installation:

Observe tightening sequence for 4 retaining nuts.

Tightening torque 63 21 1AZ.

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

Avoid twisting rear light when screwing down.

Fig 2: Identifying Location Of Retaining Nut

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: Ensuring Buffer Stop Of Rear Light Is Fitted

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Replacement:

If necessary, replace socket housing for rear light. See 63 21 055 Replacing A Socket Housing For Left Or Right Rear Light .