How to remove and install the differential seal and pinion flange on the rear of a BMW 328i?

This procedure applies to both the front (AWD models) and rear differential. Removal: Remove the driveshaft and the exhaust system. Remove the retaining plate and make alignment marks between the driveshaft flange nut, the differential pinion flange, and pinion. Discard the retaining plate; a new one must be used during installation. Hold the differential pinion flange stationary by bolting a length of metal bar to it. Unscrew the nut, noting the exact number of turns necessary to remove it. Using a suitable puller, draw the differential pinion flange from the pinion and remove the dust cover. If the dust cover shows signs of wear, replace it. Pry the oil seal from the differential case with a screwdriver. Wipe the oil-seal seating surface clean. Installation: Smear a little differential oil on the sealing lip of the new oil seal, then press it squarely into the differential case until it is flush with the outer face. If necessary, tap the seal into position using a metal tube that only bears on its hard outer edge. Install the dust cover and place the differential pinion flange on the pinion, aligning the marks made during removal. Replace the flange nut, screwing it on by the exact number of turns counted during removal, so that all alignment marks align. Caution: Do not overtighten the flange nut. If the nut is overtightened, the collapsible spacer behind the flange will be deformed, requiring its replacement. This is a complex operation that requires the rear differential to be disassembled. Secure the nut in position with the new retaining plate, tapping it squarely into position.

Genuine BMW 328i Differential Seal

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6 Differential Seals found

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BMW 328i Shaft Seal
Part Number: 31507609535
$14.45 MSRP: $18.20
You Save: $3.75 (21%)
Ships in 1-3 Business Days
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Product Specifications
- Other Name: Shaft seal
- Replaces: 33-10-1-214-099, 33-12-1-203-811, 33-12-1-212-461
- Warranty: This genuine part is guaranteed by BMW's factory warranty.
Fits the following Vehicles:
- 2007-2016 BMW 328i | Convertible N51 Engine(E93), Convertible N52 Engine(E93), Coupe N51 Engine(E92), Coupe N52 Engine(E92), N20 Engine(F30), N26 Engine(F30), Sedan N20 Engine(F30), Sedan N26 Engine(F30), Sedan N51 Engine(E90), Sedan N52 Engine(E90), Wagon(E91), Wagon(F31)
- 1996-2000 BMW 328i | Convertible(E36), Sedan(E36), Sedan(E46)
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BMW 328i Shaft Seal With Lock Ring
Part Number: 33107505604
$14.45 MSRP: $18.20
You Save: $3.75 (21%)
Ships in 1-3 Business Days
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Product Specifications
- Other Name: Shaft seal with lock ring
- Replaces: 33-13-1-214-322
- Warranty: This genuine part is guaranteed by BMW's factory warranty.
Fits the following Vehicles:
- 2007-2013 BMW 328i | Convertible N51 Engine(E93), Convertible N52 Engine(E93), Coupe N51 Engine(E92), Coupe N52 Engine(E92), Sedan N51 Engine(E90), Sedan N52 Engine(E90), Wagon(E91)
- 1999-2000 BMW 328i | Sedan(E46)
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BMW 328i Shaft Seal With Lock Ring
Part Number: 33107505602
$17.11 MSRP: $18.65
You Save: $1.54 (9%)
Ships in 1-3 Business Days
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Product Specifications
- Other Name: Shaft seal with lock ring
- Warranty: This genuine part is guaranteed by BMW's factory warranty.
Fits the following Vehicles:
- 1996-1999 BMW 328i | Convertible(E36), Sedan(E36)
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BMW 328i Gasket Set Differential
Part Number: 33107564416
$77.64 MSRP: $96.58
You Save: $18.94 (20%)
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Product Specifications
- Other Name: Gasket set differential
- Replaced by: 33108860346
- Warranty: This genuine part is guaranteed by BMW's factory warranty.
Fits the following Vehicles:
- 2012-2016 BMW 328i | N20 Engine(F30), N26 Engine(F30), Sedan N20 Engine(F30), Sedan N26 Engine(F30), Wagon(F31)
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BMW 328i Shaft Seal
Part Number: 33101214099
$14.45 MSRP: $18.20
You Save: $3.75 (21%)
Ships in 1-3 Business Days
ADD TO CART
Product Specifications
- Other Name: Shaft seal
- Replaced by: 31507609535
- Warranty: This genuine part is guaranteed by BMW's factory warranty.
Fits the following Vehicles:
- 1996-1999 BMW 328i | Convertible(E36), Sedan(E36)
View related parts
BMW 328i Gasket Set Differential
Part Number: 33101211823
$129.63 MSRP: $148.70
You Save: $19.07 (13%)
Product Specifications
- Other Name: Gasket set differential; Gasket Kit
- Warranty: This genuine part is guaranteed by BMW's factory warranty.
Fits the following Vehicles:
- 1996-1999 BMW 328i | Convertible(E36), Sedan(E36)

BMW 328i Differential Seal

The Differential Seal of a BMW 328i is a sealant that prevents leakage of gear oil from the differential housing and keeps out dirt and moisture. A Differential Seal is located at the axle where the driveshaft or half-shaft attaches to the differential case to prevent lubrication leaks, which can cause gear overheating and damage. The system prevents the entry of abrasive particles and allows the differential to split the torque, allowing the smooth rotation of each rear wheel. The Differential Seal is made primarily of durable synthetic rubber, which is shaped to press against the rotating shaft and the non-rotating lip of the housing to create an oil-tight seal under constant contact pressure. A seal that is cracked or dried up leaks oil. When your drive is engaged, you may hear clanking or rattling noises, which means you should replace it. Any BMW 328i owner relies on a sound Differential Seal for the smooth power delivery, protection of internal gears, and overall driving stability of the BMW 328i. Keeping the BMW 328i Differential Seal in good working condition ensures consistent lubrication.

If you are looking for OEM BMW 328i Differential Seal, we highly recommend to shop with us. Not only do we offer budget friendly prices, but we also provide fast delivery. In addition, we have a hassle-free return policy on all genuine BMW 328i Differential Seal that come backed by the manufacturer's warranty.

BMW 328i Differential Seal Parts Questions & Experts Answers

Shaft Seal
31507609535
Q:
How to remove and install the differential seal and pinion flange on the rear of a BMW 328i?
Posted by Dave D.
A:
This procedure applies to both the front (AWD models) and rear differential. Removal: Remove the driveshaft and the exhaust system. Remove the retaining plate and make alignment marks between the driveshaft flange nut, the differential pinion flange, and pinion. Discard the retaining plate; a new one must be used during installation. Hold the differential pinion flange stationary by bolting a length of metal bar to it. Unscrew the nut, noting the exact number of turns necessary to remove it. Using a suitable puller, draw the differential pinion flange from the pinion and remove the dust cover. If the dust cover shows signs of wear, replace it. Pry the oil seal from the differential case with a screwdriver. Wipe the oil-seal seating surface clean. Installation: Smear a little differential oil on the sealing lip of the new oil seal, then press it squarely into the differential case until it is flush with the outer face. If necessary, tap the seal into position using a metal tube that only bears on its hard outer edge. Install the dust cover and place the differential pinion flange on the pinion, aligning the marks made during removal. Replace the flange nut, screwing it on by the exact number of turns counted during removal, so that all alignment marks align. Caution: Do not overtighten the flange nut. If the nut is overtightened, the collapsible spacer behind the flange will be deformed, requiring its replacement. This is a complex operation that requires the rear differential to be disassembled. Secure the nut in position with the new retaining plate, tapping it squarely into position.
Answered by BMW Parts Specialist Adrian / Feb 03, 2026

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