The E46 (non-M), X3 and Z4 all have 3 diff bushings holding the differential. 2smaller ones in the front, and one bigger rear bushing. Those BMW part numbers are 33176751808 (big rear carrier bushing) and 33176770788 for the small differential bushings.A bad or failed differential bushing should be replaced right away to avoid drive train damage. Not to mention the thumping can get annoying very quick!
A failed diff bushing will often result in a loud ‚bump‚ coming from the rear of the car. It sounds like there is something trying to escape our of the trunk of your car. Well, that's a sure sign of a worn/failed rear diff bushing. If you speak in BMW part numbers, then that's 33176751808. This is the poly replacement for that bushing. This is the last diff bushing you will ever need to buy for your Non-M E46.
This is the poly version Garagistic E46 diff bushing. We also make them in Delrin for race application only. Both versions come with an aluminum insert as the factory did. Improvements will be felt in throttle response and the ability to transfers more power to the wheels.
This item fits the following BMWs
- 1999-2005 E46 BMW 323i 323ci 325i 325ci 325xi 328i 328ci 330i 330ci 330xi (Will not fit M3)
- 2001-2006 Spec E46 BMW 330i 330ci
- 2004-2006 E83 BMW X3 2.5i X3 3.0i
- 2003-2006 Z4 BMW Z4 2.5i Z4 3.0i
SHOULD I USE POLY OR DELRIN IN MY E46 DIFF BUSHING?
We have this diff bushing available in 80a (soft poly), 95a (hard poly) and full-on Delrin. The stock E46 rear diff bushing is meant for that comfort. Its meant to be quite. So BMW allows for a little bit of movement for the sake of comfort. However, with its "floating" design it can fail under normal street use let alone any kind of performance driving. So we have the perfect solution. 80a soft poly is for that OEM + feel. That means you want a subtle upgrade for your street E46 without too much of a compromise in comfort, these are a happy medium. 80a are designed for the street enthusiast. 95a is great for dual purpose aggressive street and track applications. Delrin bushings are generally best for race applications only.