Changing Rear Differential Oil

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2003 BMW X5 and 2002 BMW X5. 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: Removing Differential Oil Drain Plug

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).

Fig 2: Replacing Oil Filler Plug And Sealing Ring

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 Oil 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).

Fig 4: Replacing Oil Filler Plug And Sealing Ring

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.