Axle Shafts: Removal
WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2005 BMW 645Ci and 2004 BMW 645Ci. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
Apply parking brake. Unclip hub cover. Unscrew collar nut. See Figure. Remove rear wheel. Remove exhaust system up to catalytic converter. Remove bolts. See Figure. Cover swinging arm with a cloth. Press axle shaft off drive flange with a small screw driver and place it on the cloth. See Figure. Press axle shaft out of drive flange and remove toward center of vehicle.