Genuine 2007 BMW 335i Differential

2007 BMW 335i Differential Parts Questions & Experts Answers

• Q: How to remove and reinstall the front differential on 2007 BMW 335i?

  A: Disconnect the negative battery cable, ensuring to read the battery disconnection cautions beforehand. Remove the cabin microfilter housing, the air intake hood above the radiator, and the upper engine cover. For non-turbo engines, take out the air filter housing. Raise the engine hood into the assembly position, then raise the vehicle and support it safely. Remove the splash shield and front end reinforcement if applicable from under the engine. Install an engine support brace across the engine bay and raise the engine slightly to relieve the load on the engine mounts. Working underneath the engine, remove the right and left engine mount upper nuts, then remove the left front wheel and the left front ABS wheel speed sensor. Detach the front brake caliper without disconnecting the brake fluid line, detach the left tie rod end from the steering knuckle, and detach the left tension strut and bushing from the steering knuckle. Remove the left control arm from the steering knuckle and the pinch-bolt securing the front strut to the steering knuckle. Use a special prying tool to force the left front drive axle inner CV joint shaft out of the front differential output flange, being prepared to catch any dripping oil. Similarly, use the prying tool to separate the right front drive axle inner CV joint from the right bearing pedestal to release the axle circlip, noting that the drive axle is removed along with the steering knuckle as a single unit. Unbolt the steering spindle universal joint from the steering rack, supporting the front subframe with a block of wood placed on a transmission jack while ensuring the steering rack remains bolted to the front subframe. Unbolt the front subframe from the vehicle frame, carefully lowering it by approximately 46 mm and inserting longer bolts for support, taking care not to damage the power steering lines. Remove the left engine mount and pull off the front differential vent hose, then remove bolts and lower the differential carefully, ensuring no lines, hoses, or harnesses become snagged. Replace the O-ring between the oil pan and differential before reinstalling the differential, coating it with differential oil, and then install the differential to the oil pan. The remainder of the assembly follows the reverse order of removal, keeping in mind to replace the drive axle flange seal before installing the drive axle, check the front differential oil level, and use a BMW scan tool to carry out the steering angle sensor adjustment.