63 21 183 Removing and installing/replacing left or right tail light (on rear lid)

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2011 BMW M3, 2010 BMW M3, 2009 BMW M3, and 2008 BMW M3. 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:

Partially remove TRIM PANEL FOR REAR LID

Disconnect plug connection (1).

Unlock locking clip (2) in direction of arrow and remove socket housing (3) from rear light (4).

Fig 1: Removing Socket Housing From Rear Light

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Slacken nut (1) until clamping jaw (2) on rear lid (3) can be unlatched.

Tightening torque 63 21 1AZ .

Installation:

Make sure clamping jaw (2) is correctly seated on rear lid (3).

Fold rear light (4) outwards out of rear lid (3).

Remove rear light (4).

Installation:

Position lugs (5) of rear light (4) exactly over side edge of rear lid (3).

Fig 2: Identifying Slacken Nut, Clamping Jaw And Rear Lid

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Installation:

Make sure seal (1) is correctly seated on rear light (2).

Fig 3: Identifying Seal On Rear Light

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.