The front differential is attached to the left side of the oil pan, while the right front drive axle inner bearing pedestal is connected to the right side. Before removing the oil pan, it's essential to lower the front suspension subframe and take off the front differential. Make sure to read through the entire procedure before beginning. Start by disconnecting the negative(-) battery cable, taking caution to be aware of battery disconnection precautions. Elevate the engine hood into its assembly position. Proceed to remove the brace from the strut towers, housing for the interior ventilation microfilter, air filter housing and duct, electric cooling fan and cowl, upper engine covers, and mark the direction of the alternator belt before removing it. Elevate the car safely, take off the underbody splash shield, the front suspension reinforcement plate, and drain the engine oil. Next, set up an engine support brace across the engine bay and raise the engine just enough to release the load on the engine mounts. The power steering pump should be unbolted and hung aside with stiff wire, taking note not to detach the fluid lines. The front suspension subframe should then be lowered from the body, followed by removing the front differential and right drive axle inner bearing pedestal. Afterward, detach the electrical harness connector at the oil level sensor and disconnect the return hose from the crankcase breather oil separator. For vehicles with automatic transmission, release the transmission oil cooler lines from their guides. Ensure all wiring and fluid lines are free from the oil pan, then unscrew the oil pan from the engine crankcase and remove the bellhousing bolts. It's essential to note the different bolt lengths. If the oil pan doesn't separate smoothly from the engine block, gently tap it with a rubber mallet; avoid prying tools. Clean the engine block's sealing surface and apply beads of 3-Bond® 1209 or an equivalent sealant. When reinstalling the oil pan, clean old gasket material, use a new gasket, and insert oil pan bolts properly, securing the transmission bellhousing bolts last. Complete the installation in the reverse order of the removal process, fill the engine with oil, run the engine, and check for any leaks. Lastly, when reinstalling the front end reinforcement plate, always use new bolts.
Posted by BMWPartsDeal Specialist 
