31 50 001 Removing and installing/replacing front axle differential

WARNING: This page does not describe the selected car, but rather 6 other vehicles, including the 2016 BMW 328i xDrive, 2016 BMW 328d xDrive, 2015 BMW 328i xDrive, 2015 BMW 328d xDrive, and 2014 BMW 328i xDrive. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

IMPORTANT: For the initial filling of a new replacement front axle differential, the gearbox is filled with 600 ml oil! If oil is filled up to the lower edge of the oil filler opening, the gearbox would be overfilled and in rare individual cases oil could emerge from the ventilation opening on the front axle differential.

WARNING: Danger to life!
SECURE ENGINE IN INSTALLATION POSITION to prevent it from falling down.

Necessary preliminary tasks:

Secure ENGINE IN INSTALLATION POSITION .
Drain and dispose of FRONT DIFFERENTIAL OIL
Remove OUTPUT SHAFT ON LEFT AND RIGHT .
REMOVE front propeller shaft.
Lower FRONT AXLE SUPPORT .

IMPORTANT: Grip front axle differential firmly while releasing last bolt in order to avoid damage caused by the differential falling.

Release screws (1, 2).

Remove front axle differential downwards.

Installation note:

During removal and installation: Replace O-RING .

Coat O-ring with front axle differential oil.

Make sure screws are installed in correct positions.

Screws (1) M12x55
Screw (2) M12x105

Tightening torque 31 50 1AZ .

Fig 1: Identifying Front Axle Differential Screws

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

After installation:

Fill FRONT AXLE DIFFERENTIAL WITH OIL .
Check OIL LEVEL IN TRANSFER BOX , correct if necessary.