63 21 170 Removing and installing/replacing left or right rear light

Necessary preliminary tasks: 

• Remove LEFT LOADING EDGE END COVER

Unfasten plug connection (3) and disconnect.

Vehicles up to 10/2011 (rear light, previous version): 

Release nuts (1) and (2).

Vehicles from 10/2011 (rear light, new version): 

Unscrew nuts (1).

Tightening torque 63 21 1AZ .

Fig 1: Identifying Rear Light Plug Connections And Screws

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Remove rear light (1) in direction of arrow.

Fig 2: Removing Rear Light

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Installation note: 

On vehicles with production date up to 05/09/2013  , adhesive tape (1) is stuck on bumper guide (2) between bumper panel and rear light.

When replacing the rear light, a check must be made of whether adhesive tape (1) is present on the bottom of the new light: 

• If yes  , remove adhesive tape (2) from bumper guide (3).
• If no  , attach adhesive tape (2) to bumper guide (3) as illustrated; adhesive tape (2) is not to protruded on bumper guide (3).

Fig 3: Locating Adhesive Tape On Bumper Guide

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Installation note: 

Make sure sealing frame (2) is seated exactly.

Make sure guides (3) of rear light are correctly seated in associated mountings.

Make sure there is a uniform gap dimension (outer) all round for the rear light.

Pay attention to gap dimensions at points (4).

If necessary, adjust rear light by twisting the threaded pins (1).

Fig 4: Identifying Sealing Frame And Rear Light Guides

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Replacement: 

• Replace SEALING FRAME FOR REAR LIGHT 
• Remove SOCKET HOUSING FOR REAR LIGHT