3310010 Removing and installing/replacing rear differential

WARNING: This page does not describe the selected car, but rather 8 other vehicles, including the 2011 BMW 328i, 2011 BMW 323i, 2010 BMW 335i, 2010 BMW 328i, and 2010 BMW 323i. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

IMPORTANT: Use only approved rear differential oils. See REAR AXLE - OPERATING FLUIDS .

NOTE: The following sequence was created using the E87 with N45 as an example. Differences in detail (e.g. due to VIBRATION DAMPER ) in other engines are possible.

Necessary preliminary tasks:

Remove PROPELLER SHAFT ON FINAL DRIVE .
Remove output shaft from rear differential at both ends . See 3321001 REMOVING AND INSTALLING/REPLACING LEFT OUTPUT SHAFT or 3321002 REMOVING AND INSTALLING/REPLACING RIGHT OUTPUT SHAFT and tie back

IMPORTANT: Observe gap between special tool 334 420 FIXTURE and dust plates.
To avoid grinding noises, make sure the dust plates are not damaged (e.g. bent).

Support rear differential with workshop jack and special tool 334 420 FIXTURE .

Release screws (1).

Release nut (2) and remove screw towards rear.

Slowly lower workshop jack and remove rear differential towards rear.

Fig 1: Supporting Rear Differential Using Workshop Jack And Special Tool (33 4 420)

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

IMPORTANT: Adhere to the following installation sequence in order to prevent distortion of the rear differential during installation and thereby avoid potential complaints about noise.

Installation sequence

Install rear differential with workshop jack and special tool 334 420 FIXTURE
Insert bolts (1) (do not tighten down)
Insert bolt from rear and replace nut (2) (do not tighten down)
Lower workshop jack
Tighten down screws (1)
Tightening torque 33 17 1AZ .
Tighten nut (2)
Tightening torque 33 17 1AZ .

Fig 2: Supporting Rear Differential Using Workshop Jack And Special Tool (33 4 420)
Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

After installation

Check REAR DIFFERENTIAL OIL LEVEL , correct if necessary.

Applies to four-wheel drive only:

Replacement only:

With BMW Diagnosis and Information System under:
- Control-module functions Perform functional check of transfer box (calibration)