Axle Shafts: Removal

WARNING: This page does not describe the selected car, but rather 49 other vehicles, including the 2003 BMW M5, 2003 BMW 540i, 2003 BMW 530i, 2003 BMW 525i, and 2002 BMW M5. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Raise and support vehicle. Remove rear wheel.
On models with air suspension, remove air supply fuse. Disconnect air lines at distributor block. This prevents accidental activation of system. See Fig 1 .
On some models it will be necessary to disconnect stabilizer bar from rear axle carrier. Tilt stabilizer bar downward.
On all models, remove axle CV joint-to-differential final drive flange bolts and washers. See Fig 2 . Remove axle from differential final drive flange and suspend axle from underside of vehicle body with wire.
Have a helper apply vehicle brakes and remove axle hub collar nut, and discard.
Using special tool (33 2 111/116/117), press axle shaft out of drive hub. See Fig 3 .
Remove axle shaft.

Fig 1: Locating Air Suspension Distributor Block

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Fig 2: Locating Axle-To-Final Drive Flange Bolts & Washers

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Fig 3: Pressing Out Axle Shaft

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.