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.

Left only:

Remove FLAP IN LUGGAGE COMPARTMENT PANEL on left.
Remove warning triangle

Only on right side:

Remove LUGGAGE COMPARTMENT TRIM on side panel on right

Disconnect plug connection (1).

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

Fig 1: Removing Socket Housing From Rear Light And Locking Clip

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Unscrew nuts (1).

Tightening torque 63 21 1AZ .

Remove rear light (2) in outwards direction from side panel.

Installation:

Make sure gap is uniform all round between rear light (2) and side panel.

Fig 2: Identifying Rear Light And Nuts

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Installation:

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

Make sure guide (3) is correctly seated on side panel.

Fig 3: Identifying Seal On Rear Light

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Replacement:

If necessary, remove BULBS .