63 21 180 Removing and installing/replacing left or right tail light

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2003 BMW Z8, 2002 BMW Z8, 2001 BMW Z8, and 2000 BMW Z8. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Necessary preliminary tasks:

Remove complete rear bumper. Refer to 51 12 000 REMOVING AND INSTALLING COMPLETE REAR BUMPER .

Unscrew nuts (1).

Fig 1: Removing Rear Light

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Installation:

Replace nuts (1).

Remove rear light (2) in direction of arrow.

Replacement only:

NOTE: There are 2 versions of the rear light (2), distinguished by the corner to the middle of the vehicle:

Old version (A): contour (1) of rear light (2) straight
New version (B): contour (1) of rear light (2) angled

Fig 2: Identifying Rear Light Versions

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

When replacing, always fit the new version (B).

When replacing the old version (A) with the new version (B), also observe the following:

If necessary, replace lock cover (trim) if old version (A) is fitted on right and left.
Replace rear bumper retaining rail on left or right.
If necessary, stick on cover for rear light (left and/or right).