Necessary preliminary tasks

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2012 BMW 328i, 2011 BMW 328i, 2010 BMW 328i, and 2009 BMW 328i. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Remove output shaft from rear differential See 3321001 REMOVING AND INSTALLING/REPLACING LEFT OUTPUT SHAFT or 3321002 REMOVING AND INSTALLING/REPLACING RIGHT OUTPUT SHAFT and tie back

Using a suitable screwdriver and a hammer (acting as a rest), force drive flange (1) off rear differential.

Installation:

Replaced deformed or damaged dust plates.

Insert drive flange and rotate until spline on flange meshes with teeth on differential bevel gear.

Press drive flange in further until circlip locates with an audible click.

IMPORTANT: High installation forces indicate that the spline teeth on the drive flange/differential bevel gear are damaged/deformed!
Check spline teeth, replaced damaged parts.

Fig 1: Removing Drive Flange Off Rear Differential

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Install retaining ring (1).

Installation:

Clean shaft seal race on drive flange thoroughly.

Coat drive flange at contact face of shaft seal with approved rear differential oil. See REAR AXLE - OPERATING FLUIDS .

Fig 2: Identifying Retaining Ring

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.