33 11... Replacing Rear Cover Gasket On Rear Differential (188L/188LW, 215L/215LW)

WARNING: This page does not describe the selected car, but rather 10 other vehicles, including the 2010 BMW 535xi, 2010 BMW 528xi, 2009 BMW 535xi, 2009 BMW 528xi, and 2008 BMW 535xi. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

IMPORTANT: To avoid leaks from the rear differential cover, do not use a paper gasket in cars with liquid gaskets!
To prevent the differential oil from foaming over, make sure that no remnants of the liquid gasket are pressed into the rear differential housing.

Release screws (1).

Tightening torque (M10x60) 33 11 1AZ

Unscrew screws (2).

Tightening torque (M10x25) 33 11 1AZ

Remove cover.

If necessary, remove remnants of liquid gasket with scraper.

Clean sealing face on cover and rear differential.

Fig 1: Identifying Rear Differential Cover Screws (188L/188LW)

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Fig 2: Identifying Rear Differential Cover Screws (215L/215LW)

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Installation:

If a paper gasket was fitted, a paper or liquid gasket can be used.