Hi, during my recent differential fluid change in my '06 530i, I've noticed the diff fluid leak at (left side) output shaft seal on the differential. Anyone had this issue? I am planning to buy a new seal from BMW tomorrow (if they have one in stock). Anyone changed this seal or replaced the output shaft?

Appreciate any feedback on this seal replacement. I will probably tackle this job next weekend.

 

I have had E46 M3, and it's a big problem, leaking seal. I didn't have mine leak, but a lot people did DIY. So look at M3forum, it should be same idea.

 

Yep, pretty much the same.

1) Remove the inverted torx bolts from the half shaft
2) pull out the axle shaft from the diff
3) replace seal

 

Here is the detailed description of how to replace output shaft seal [to the rear differential] on an E60.

1. Buy new seal with the lock pin (part # 33107505604)
2. Jack up rear of the car or hoist the car up.
2. Remove the corresponding rear wheel.
3. Remove the axle nut -OR- remove the long bolt on the bottom of the hub.
4. Remove the bolts that attach the half shaft to the flange. Pull the half shaft out of the flange and move the half shaft aside.
5. Use long pry bar and pry the flange out of the diff. Use some force.
6. Pry out the old seal out of the diff.
7. Clean up the area.
8. Put the new seal in; place it carefully and tap it gently. Make sure you don't damage the seal while doing this step.
9. Put the flange back in.
10. Put back the bolts on the half shaft to the flange.
11. Put back the long bolt on the bottom of the hub/carrier. You will need help from other person to lift the carrier up while you put that bolt on.
I bought the axle nut thinking I'd have to remove the axle nut. However, we didn't go that route; instead, we remove the long bolt - this allows the entire rear hub to be lifted up enough for the half shaft to be removed from diff and set aside.

 

Great DIY instruction. This thread should be placed in DIY forum instead.

 

Here is a diagram that shows the long bolt I was referring to in step # 3.
Part labeled #5 in the below diagram.

 

No drain plug on this differential??