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

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2013 BMW Z4, 2012 BMW Z4, 2011 BMW Z4, 2010 BMW Z4, and 2009 BMW Z4. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

IMPORTANT: Read and comply with notes on protection against electrostatic damage (ESD PROTECTION) .

Necessary preliminary tasks:

Remove LEFT LOADING SILL 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 Tail Light Plug Connections And Nuts

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

NOTE: If replacing in vehicles with production date up to 10/2011 the rear light new version is fitted. Additional work is only necessary for these vehicles:

Seal opening for attachment point (2) with adhesive film (sourcing reference: BMW Parts Department 7 162 569).
Renew rubber grommets (sourcing reference: BMW Parts Department 7 216 997) in side wall.
Observe the installation notes below without fail!

Remove rear light (1) in direction of arrow.

Fig 2: Removing Rear Light

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Installation

Make sure sealing frame (1) is exactly seated.

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 3: Identifying Rear Light Guides, Sealing Frame And Outer Gap

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Replacement:

Replace SEALING FRAME FOR REAR LIGHT .
Remove A SOCKET HOUSING FOR REAR LIGHT .