Changing rear differential oil:

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

NOTE: The oil no longer has to be changed in rear differentials which do not have an oil drain plug (168K from 03/2003, 168L, 188L, 215L).

Only change oil when rear differential is at normal operating temperature.

Recycling:

Catch and dispose of emerging differential oil.

Observe country-specific waste-disposal regulations

Place oil collecting apparatus underneath.

Remove oil drain plug (1).

Drain and dispose of differential oil.

Undo oil filler plug (2).

Fig 1: Locating Rear Differential Plugs

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Installation:

Oil drain plug with sealing ring:
Replace sealing ring (1).

Tightening torque: 65 Nm.
Oil drain plug with O-ring:
Replace oil drain plug (2).

Tightening torque: 60 Nm.

Fig 2: Identifying Oil Drain Plugs
Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Installation:

Pour in rear differential oil up to lower edge of opening for oil filler plug (1).

NOTE: If necessary, refer to TECHNICAL DATA for necessary fill quantities.

Fig 3: Locating Rear Differential Plugs

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Installation:

Oil filler plug with sealing ring:
Replace sealing ring (1).

Tightening torque: 65 Nm.
Oil filler plug with O-ring:
Replace oil filler plug (2).

Tightening torque: 60 Nm.

Fig 4: Identifying Oil Filler Plug
Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.