Necessary preliminary tasks

WARNING: This page does not describe the selected car, but rather 8 other vehicles, including the 2012 BMW 328xi, 2012 BMW 328i, 2011 BMW 328xi, 2011 BMW 328i, and 2010 BMW 328xi. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Remove rear assembly underside protection
Remove reinforcement carrier on underbody
Remove exhaust system (M3 only)
Remove heat shields
Remove transfer case (AWD)
Remove CROSSMEMBER FOR TRANSMISSION MOUNTING .
Remove transmission support block (M3 only)

Detach locking clip.

Fig 1: Removing Locking Clip

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

IMPORTANT: New retaining clips fitted as from 04.08.
Retaining clip must interlock captively with retaining web (1) behind shift rod pin.

Fig 2: Identifying Retaining Web

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Pull shift rod (1) out of shift rod joint (2).