BMW Differential and Gearing Upgrades for MINI

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Upgrading various parts of the differential can have tremendous benefits in your car's performance. It's easy to forget that the differential is a source for making your car faster and handle better so it's often overlooked. The engine is not the only place to make the car faster. Our differential options vary from gearing upgrades to limited slip conversions. You can purchase the ring & pinion gear sets on their own (professional installation required) or have us build a diff around your own specifcations. The options are almost endless! Every custom-built diff is fully rebuilt with seals and bearings. We also design and supply bushing options to reduce driveline wind-up, finned differential covers for better cooling, and more!

Ratio Changes - Changing the differential gearing is one of the best and most-effective upgrades you can make on any BMW (old or new). By using a shorter (numerically higher) final drive ratio you are increasing your RPM relative to road speed - this puts you in a more powerful RPM range than before! Since you're in a 'meatier' part of the power band you're now putting down more power/torque to the ground. If you can trade outright top speed for faster acceleration at daily speeds then this is the perfect upgrade for you.

Limited Slip Upgrades - Sadly, many BMWs today are not equipped with a limited slip (posi-traction) differential. BMW has tried to compensate by using traction control that cuts power at the engine or applies the brakes to retard wheel spin (or a combination of both). But nothing beats the function and feel of a a true LSD which may be why BMW continues to use them in M cars. Our LSD upgrades can be done a number of different ways - a factory-type limited slip unit with either 2 or 3 clutch packs, helical type, OS Giken unit, or something truly custom. We can also vary ramp angles and setup to change the limited-slip behavior under acceleration, deceleration, and cornering. Need a custom diff? Call or e-mail to have a quote.

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Turner Titanium Magnetic Differential Drain Plug - M22x1.5
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Turner Motorsport - Corporate Logo
T#:593924
Part#: 027030TMS01
In Stock
Sale - Save 25% $ 89.99

This product was last offered at the strikethrough price on
06-14-2026

$ 67.49 USD
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Sale - Save 25%
$ 89.99

This product was last offered at the strikethrough price on
06-14-2026

$ 67.49 USD
Free Shipping on orders $49 and up
When both extreme-duty protection and saving every gram matters: the Turner Magnetic Differential Drain Plug.
Shaft Seal
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2X Entries For Our G87 M2 Sweepstakes! We Price Match - Give Us A Call or Chat!
Elring - Corporate Logo
T#:591509
Part#: 11117568263
In Stock
$ 22.99 USD
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Ideal for engine repairs or addressing leaks into the transmission bell housing, this shaft seal is designed to be mounted on the engine block's upper and lower halves, facing towards the transmission housing.
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MINI R53/R56 OS Giken Super Lock Racing Limited Slip Differential ...
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OS Giken - Corporate Logo
T#:200230
Part#: MN024-HA
Back Ordered
$ 1,650.00 USD
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$ 1,650.00 USD
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If your MINI is only for competition use - autocross, time trial, or racing - this OS Giken LSD may be a better option than the standard 1.5-way unit. This race-spec LSD was developed over several seasons of competitive autocross. It uses a new high pressure ring for quicker response time and faster lockup. This makes it ideal for quick transitions and rapid on/off throttle motions typically encountered on the track. It's a one-way lockup so the car stays predictable under braking and gives the driver more feedback. For street use we prefer the normal 1.5-way setup because it's more progressive during lockup.

The biggest shortcoming of any MINI is not the lack of power - it's being able to put all of its useable power to the ground! The Cooper S is basically a one-wheel drive car and sending 200+ hp through that one tire does not live up to its full potential. A limited-slip differential is essential to any highly-tuned FWD car. The OS Giken Super-Lock is one of the most advanced clutch-type differentials on the market, and a favorite of autocrossers and road racers. The OS LSD for the MINI features ten clutch discs for a smooth and progressive lockup. By putting all of your available power to the ground you're at an instant advantage over the stock open-type differential. You'll be able to power through corners and on rough surfaces instead of uselessly spinning a wheel. Understeer is reduced by giving more bite to the tire that has the most traction. With an LSD in your MINI Cooper S you'll wonder why it wasn't first on your list to begin with (or why MINI/BMW left it out in the first place...).

The MNI OS Giken LSD uses a special 80W250 fluid that must be purchased separately.

This item fits the following BMWs:
2002-2006 R53 MINI MINI Cooper S (6MT manual transmission only)
2007-2013 R56 MINI MINI Cooper S (6MT manual transmission only)
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Helical Limited Slip Differential - Mini R52+
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Team MFactory - Corporate Logo
T#:3283361
Part#: MF-TRS-05MIN
In Stock
$ 699.99 USD
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$ 699.99 USD
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When it comes to gaining a significant advantage over your competitors, the MFactory Helical Limited Slip Differential (LSD) is your ultimate ally. This LSD offers a seamless and consistent distribution of power to your vehicle's wheels, allowing you to harness maximum traction and put the power firmly on the ground.

But what does an LSD do, you ask? Well, without an LSD, your car essentially operates as a "1-wheel drive," as it can't deliver torque to both wheels simultaneously. Instead, it directs torque to the wheel with less grip, highlighting the limitations of an open differential, which is standard in most vehicles.

An LSD, on the other hand, permits the wheels to spin at slightly different speeds by a limited amount, typically represented as a percentage difference. It's when the differential locks that both wheels receive power. It's important to note that LSDs function differently from locked differentials, such as those in off-road trucks, which supply equal torque and rotational speed to both rear wheels simultaneously, often causing handling issues.

Key Features:

  • Crafted from imported Japanese SAE 4320 Steel
  • Industry-first 30-day "Feel the Torque™" money-back guarantee, along with a Limited-Lifetime Warranty
  • Forged, double tempered, and super sub-zero treated for unparalleled toughness
  • Utilizes advanced Shot Peening technology to increase surface hardness
  • Engineered to withstand the extreme shock loads of competition-level drag racing
  • Advanced gear geometry designed using industry-leading software, delivering more power to the ground
  • Exclusively uses the highest quality Brighton-Best Hardware
  • Maintenance-free gears eliminate the need for special fluids and rebuilds associated with plate-type LSDs
  • Ensures lock-free operation, preventing adverse effects on steering response
  • Rated for up to ~1000 WHp

As part of the break-in procedure, we recommend changing the fluid after the first 3-400 miles of use.

Warranty:

MFactory Competition Products stands behind the quality of its Helical LSDs. A limited lifetime warranty is provided, ensuring that these LSDs are free of defects in materials and workmanship upon receipt of the product and professional installation. Any part returned must be determined by MFactory Competition Products to be defective before any warranty credit or replacement is issued.

MFactory Competition Products's obligation under the warranty is limited to repairing or replacing, at its discretion, any part proven defective. The customer is responsible for prepaying transportation charges.

It's important to note that the final determination of the suitability of the products for the intended use is the sole responsibility of the buyer. MFactory Competition Products shall not be liable for any special, direct, indirect, incidental, or consequential damages, including claims for delay, loss of profits, or labor that might be claimed as a result of the failure of any part.

Furthermore, MFactory Competition Products shall not be liable for any damage or injury to persons or property resulting from improper installation or misuse of any part covered by this warranty.

Please be aware that there are no other warranties, whether expressed or implied, extending beyond those set forth above.

Note: To ensure a proper fit, you'll need to reuse the old bearings or acquire new bearings and press them onto each end.

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Limited Slip Differential 56.309.191WK
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Wavetrac - Corporate Logo
T#:22723746
Part#: 56309191WK
Ships in 2 Business Days
$ 1,065.99 USD
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  • Innovative: Patented Wavetrac® design automatically improves grip in low traction conditions. This feature is truly innovative and unlike any other torque biasing differential design.
  • Superior Materials: High strength 9310 steel gears are used in case-hardened billet or forged steel bodies. ARP® fasteners are used throughout the differential.
  • Maintenance Free: As supplied new, the Wavetrac® differential will perform a lifetime of service without maintenance or rebuilds.
  • Limited LIFETIME Warranty: All Wavetrac® differentials include a transferable, limited lifetime warranty.
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    Limited Slip Differential 56.309.190WK
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    Wavetrac - Corporate Logo
    T#:640442
    Part#: 56309190WK
    Back Ordered
    $ 975.99 USD
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    $ 975.99 USD
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    Boost Traction with Wavetrac® Torque Biasing Differential

    Elevate your vehicle's performance with the revolutionary Wavetrac® Torque Biasing Differential. It boasts a patented design that automatically enhances traction when faced with low-grip conditions, setting it apart from other torque biasing differential systems.

    Manufactured with precision, this superior differential features high-strength 9310 steel gears housed within case-hardened billet or forged steel bodies. The use of ARP® fasteners throughout the differential ensures exceptional durability and reliability.

    What makes the Wavetrac® truly exceptional is its maintenance-free operation. You can rely on it to deliver consistent performance throughout its lifetime, without the need for regular maintenance or rebuilds. Additionally, it comes with a transferable limited lifetime warranty for your peace of mind.

    For in-depth technical information about the Wavetrac® Differential, visit our [Technical Information](http://www.wavetrac.net/technical.htm).

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    Genuine BMW Engine & Trans Suspension Hex Nut With Plate 22316760944 ...
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    Genuine BMW - Corporate Logo
    T#:7561
    Part#: 22316760944
    In Stock
    $ 2.99 USD
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    Genuine BMW Hex Nut With Plate - M8
    This item fits the following BMW Chassis:
    E30 M3,E36 M3,E34 M5,E39 M5,E60 M5,E63 M6,E46 M3,E82 1M Coupe,E85 Z4M,E30,E34,E36,E38,E39,E46,E63,E65,E82,E85 Z4,E86 Z4,E89 Z4,E90,E92,E93,F22,F30,F31,F32,F33,F34,F36,F80 M3,F82 M4,F83

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    Genuine BMW Front Axle Hexagon Screw With Flange 31106772199 ...
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    Genuine BMW - Corporate Logo
    T#:12469
    Part#: 31106772199
    In Stock
    $ 7.99 USD
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    GENUINE BMW HEXAGON SCREW WITH FLANGE:319500

    Genuine BMW Hex Nut With Plate - 07129904862
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    Genuine BMW - Corporate Logo
    T#:28828
    Part#: 07129904862
    In Stock
    $ 3.99 USD
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    Genuine BMW Hex Nut With Plate
    This item fits the following BMW Chassis:
    E39 M5,E60 M5,E63 M6,E46 M3,E70 X5M,E71 X6M,E85 Z4M,E53 48IS,E30,E36,E38,E39,E46,E53 X5 X5,E63,E65,E70 X5,E71 X6,E85 Z4,E86 Z4,E89 Z4,E90,E92,E93,F01,F02,F06,F10,F12,F13,F15,F16

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    Differential Drain Plug with O-Ring - Most BMWs
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    Genuine BMW - Corporate Logo
    T#:7923
    Part#: 33117525064
    In Stock
    15% off MSRP $ 11.61

    MSRP stands for Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price. This is the suggested retail price provided by the manufacturer, supplier or seller.

    $ 9.87 USD
    Free Shipping on orders $49 and up
    15% off MSRP
    $ 11.61

    MSRP stands for Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price. This is the suggested retail price provided by the manufacturer, supplier or seller.

    $ 9.87 USD
    Free Shipping on orders $49 and up
    This is the front or rear Genuine BMW differential fluid drain plug for many BMWs. This can also be the transfer case plug or automatic transmission plug on some BMWs.

    + Year & Model Applications
    (click to expand)
    This item fits the following BMWs:
    1970-1976 2002 BMW 1600 2002 2002tii
    2008+ E82 BMW 128i 135i 1M Coupe
    1977-1983 E21 BMW 320i 323i
    1984-1991 E30 BMW 318i 318is 318ic 325e 325es 325i 325ic 325is 325ix M3
    1992-1998 E36 BMW 318i 318is 318ti 318ic 323is 323ic 325i 325is 325ic 328i 328is 328ic M3
    1999-2005 E46 BMW 323i 323ci 325i 325ci 325xi 328i 328ci 330i 330ci 330xi M3
    2006-2011 E90 BMW 325i 325xi 328i 328xi 328i xDrive 330i 330xi 335d 335i 335xi 335i xDrive M3 - Sedan
    2006-2012 E91 BMW 325xi 328i 328xi 328i xDrive - Wagon
    2007-2012 E92 BMW 328i 328xi 328i xDrive 335i 335is 335xi 335i xDrive M3 - Coupe
    2007-2012 E93 BMW 328i 335i M3 - Convertible
    1976-1981 E12 BMW 528i 530i
    1982-1988 E28 BMW 524td 528e 533i 535i 535is M5
    1989-1995 E34 BMW 525i 530i 535i 540i M5
    1997-2003 E39 BMW 525i 528i 530i 540i M5
    2004-2010 E60 BMW 525i 525xi 530i 530xi 528i 528xi 528i xDrive 535i 535xi 535i xDrive 545i 550i M5
    2010+ F07 BMW 535i GT, 535i xDrive GT, 550i GT, 550i xDrive GT
    2011+ F10 BMW 528i 528i xDrive 535i 535i xDrive 550i 550i xDrive M5
    1982-1989 E24 BMW 633csi 635csi M6
    2004-2010 E63 BMW 645ci 650i M6
    2012+ F12 BMW 640i 650i
    1981-1987 E23 BMW 733i 735i
    1988-1994 E32 BMW 735i 735il 740i 740il 750il
    1995-2001 E38 BMW 740i 740il 750il
    2002-2008 E65 BMW 745i 745li 750i 750li 760i 760li
    2009+ F01 BMW 740i 740li 750i 750li 750i xDrive 750li xDrive 760li
    1990-1999 E31 BMW 840i 840ci 850i 850ci 850csi
    2004-2010 E83 BMW X3 2.5i X3 3.0i X3 3.0si
    2011+ F25 BMW X3 xDrive28i X3 xDrive35i
    2000-2006 E53 BMW X5 3.0i X5 4.4i X5 4.6is X5 4.8is
    2007-2013 E70 BMW X5 3.0si X5 4.8i X5 xDrive30i X5 xDrive35d X5 xDrive35i X5 xDrive48i X5M
    2008+ E71 BMW X6 xDrive35i X6 xDrive50i X6M
    1997-2002 Z3 BMW Z3 1.9 Z3 2.3 Z3 2.5i Z3 2.8 Z3 3.0i M Roadster M Coupe
    2003-2008 E85 BMW Z4 2.5i Z4 3.0i Z4 3.0si Z4 M Roadster M Coupe
    2009+ Z4 BMW Z4 sDrive30i Z4 sDrive35i Z4 sDrive35is
    2000-2003 E52 BMW Z8 Roadster

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    Genuine BMW Rear Axle Hex Bolt With Washer - M12 1.5x80
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    Genuine BMW - Corporate Logo
    T#:13460
    Part#: 33176760337
    In Stock
    $ 11.99

    MSRP stands for Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price. This is the suggested retail price provided by the manufacturer, supplier or seller.

    $ 9.99 USD
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    $ 9.99 USD
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    Replace your differential mounting hardware during service to eliminate problems caused by rusted or stripped hardware.
    Quaife Torque Biasing Differential for Cooper S - (NO LONGER AVAILABL...
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    Quaife - Corporate Logo
    T#:7
    Part#: TMS7
    Ships in 3 Business Days
    $ 1,732.99 USD
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    As Used on our Project Mini Cooper S
    The Quaife torque biasing differential enables your car to accelerate quicker and corner faster. How? By getting the power to the ground! The Quaife Differential powers both drive wheels under nearly all conditions, instead of just one. With an ordinary open differential, standard on all MINI's, a lot of precious power is wasted during wheelspin under acceleration. This happens because the open differential shifts power to the wheel with less grip (along the path of least resistance). The Quaife, however, does just the opposite. It senses which wheel has the better grip, and biases the power to that wheel. It does this smoothly and constantly, and without ever completely removing power from the other wheel.
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    Cusco LSD RS 1.5WAY(1&1.5W) R53 MINI COOPER S - Limited Slip Differen...
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    Cusco - Corporate Logo
    T#:43041729
    Part#: LSD BM0 C15
    Back Ordered
    3% off MSRP $ 1,480.00

    MSRP stands for Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price. This is the suggested retail price provided by the manufacturer, supplier or seller.

    $ 1,435.60 USD
    Free Shipping on orders $49 and up
    3% off MSRP
    $ 1,480.00

    MSRP stands for Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price. This is the suggested retail price provided by the manufacturer, supplier or seller.

    $ 1,435.60 USD
    Free Shipping on orders $49 and up