BMW Differential and Gearing Upgrades for BMW 3 Series E30 (1984-1991)

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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 Motorsport - Corporate Logo
T#:593924
Part#: 027030TMS01
In Stock
Sale - Save 25% $ 89.99

This product was last offered at the strikethrough price on
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$ 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.
Turner Motorsport - Corporate Logo
T#:38452827
Part#: 025993LA
Ships in 1 day
$ 1,085.99

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

Starting at $ 1,083.64 USD
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Starting at $ 1,083.64 USD
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Designed for track drivers, drift enthusiasts, and drag racers alike, this all-in-one driveline upgrade eliminates the factory weak points and reinforces your drivetrain for high-performance abuse. Whether you're laying down 500HP, clutch-kicking through corners, or launching hard at the strip, this cover keeps your differential secure, cool, and ready for battle.

The stock E30 differential cover features a single mounting provision—fine for a stock M20, but guaranteed to fail on your boosted high-horsepower M5X build. After years of broken covers, mounting tabs, and dreams, our team of E30 enthusiasts engineered the ultimate fix.

Unlike the brittle OEM cast aluminum cover, our upgraded differential cover is CNC-machined from 6061-T6 billet aluminum, offering a 30% increase in material strength alone. More importantly, a secondary mounting ear has been integrated into the design for added support, drastically improving stability and driveline shock absorption. The secondary mount is tied into the chassis using a reinforced sheet metal bracket and a billet aluminum plate, allowing for bolt-on installation or welding for ultimate rigidity.

Another major flaw of the factory E30 differential cover is its lack of any cooling provisions, leading to overheated fluid and premature wear. Our engineers solved this issue by incorporating advanced cooling features into the design. Large external fins have been added to the cover, and are optimized using CFD (Computational Fluid Dynamics) analysis to efficiently dissipate heat, reducing overall fluid temperatures. By maintaining a more stable differential temperature, this cover ensures consistent performance and extends the lifespan of your differential fluid. A built-in air duct assists in cooling by increasing airflow around the differential, further preventing heat-related failures. Our cover features optional -6AN fittings, allowing for easy integration of an external fluid cooler if desired. Finally, a 1/8 NPT port is included with the kit to ensure compatibility with fluid temperature monitoring systems.

Precision-machined from 6061-T6 billet aluminum and finished with a black hard coat anodizing, this cover is built to withstand hard use. Despite its robust construction and superior durability, this differential cover retains factory mounting features. This means any E30 188mm differential cover bushing can be installed, allowing you to tailor our upgraded cover to your build. The cover also accommodates large rear sway bars, ensuring fitment on cars with upgraded suspension. Our proprietary removable air duct provides easy access to sensor bungs, fill plugs, and drain plugs, making differential service a breeze.

FEATURES

Unmatched Strength & Durability - Heavily reinforced mounting locations are designed to withstand extreme horsepower, torque, and shock load. Secondary Differential Mount - A built-in secondary mount, integral sheet metal bracket, and billet adapter plate make this the strongest E30 differential cover on the market. Bolt-On or Weld-On Installation - The secondary mount is designed for easy bolt-in installation or can be welded to the chassis for ultimate rigidity. Optimized Cooling - Large external fins, designed using CFD analysis, dissipate heat efficiently, reducing overall differential fluid temperatures. Integrated Breather System - An integrated breather system reduces internal cavitation by properly venting built-up pressure. Enhanced Fluid Management - Includes a 1/8 NPT sensor port for real-time fluid temperature monitoring, and optional -6AN fittings for adding an external fluid cooler. Aerodynamic Air Duct - The included aerodynamic air duct further reduces fluid temperatures, increasing fluid service life and reliability. KIT CONTENTS

Dual Mount Differential Cover Assembly Includes the cover, sheet metal mounting bracket, billet aluminum mounting plate, and aerodynamic air duct. Installation Hardware Kit Includes everything you need to install this masterpiece on your E30! Differential Gasket Choose between a Genuine BMW paper gasket or make your own gasket with Loctite 5970. Optional -6AN fittings (2) for adding an external fluid cooler. Differential Cover Bushings Choose between Powerflex, OE MOOG, and Genuine BMW, or add your own (two E30 188mm differential cover bushings required for installation). Gear Oil Choose between Liqui Moly, Redline, and Genuine BMW, or supply your own fluid for reassembly.

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Genuine BMW - Corporate Logo
T#:59557
Part#: 33139065734
In Stock
1% off MSRP $ 83.99

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

$ 82.99 USD
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1% off MSRP
$ 83.99

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

$ 82.99 USD
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Genuine BMW Spacer Rings Set - 1,45Mm-1,69Mm
This item fits the following BMW Chassis:
E30 M3,E36 M3,E30,E34,E36


Genuine BMW - Corporate Logo
T#:14056
Part#: 62168357020
Ships in 3 Business Days
2% off MSRP $ 87.99

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

$ 85.99 USD
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2% off MSRP
$ 87.99

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

$ 85.99 USD
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This Genuine BMW speedometer / pulse generator is mounted in the back of the differential and provides wheel speed information to the instrument cluster speedometer.

This item fits the following BMWs:
1987-1991 E30 BMW 325ix
1992-1998 E36 BMW 318i 318is 318ti 318ic 323is 323ic 325i 325is 325ic 328i 328is 328ic M3
1990-1999 E31 BMW 840i 840ci 850i 850ci 850csi
1996-2002 Z3 BMW Z3 1.9 Z3 2.3 Z3 2.5i Z3 2.8 Z3 3.0i
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Condor Speed Shop - Corporate Logo
T#:578193
Part#: DIFSTKT-1
In Stock
$ 32.00 USD
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Condor Speed Shop took the hard work out of removing and reinstalling your differential! If you've ever taken out your diff, you know how much of a pain it is to get the bolt holes to line up during re-installation. They never seem to line up perfectly, and getting the bolts to go in can be time-consuming. Condor's diff studs are designed to make your life a little easier. The diff will line up and lift right into the holes every time. 38mm studs are used with OEM or regular subframe bushings. 45mm studs are used with the 12mm riser subframe bushings. You'll need to pull the driveshaft to drop the diff. Use thread locker during install. Recommended for street or race use. Kit includes: 4 Studs 4 Washers 4 Lock Nuts
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Genuine BMW Rubber Mounting - 33172228425
Upgrade from the Z3 M, adds stiffness to the rear with out a harsh increases in NVH
Genuine BMW - Corporate Logo
T#:59637
Part#: 33172228425
In Stock
2% off MSRP $ 301.99

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

$ 295.99 USD
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2% off MSRP
$ 301.99

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

$ 295.99 USD
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Genuine BMW RUBBER MOUNTING

Genuine BMW - Corporate Logo
T#:7914
Part#: 33101210518
Ships in 3 Business Days
2% off MSRP $ 148.99

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$ 145.99 USD
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2% off MSRP
$ 148.99

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

$ 145.99 USD
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Genuine BMW Gasket Set Differential - Typ 188
This item fits the following BMW Chassis:
E30 M3,E30

Genuine BMW - Corporate Logo
T#:394453
Part#: 33112228336
In Stock
3% off MSRP $ 617.99

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

$ 598.99 USD
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3% off MSRP
$ 617.99

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

$ 598.99 USD
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An OE replacement for your leaking or damaged rear differential cover.

Fits the following BMW's:
E36 BMW Z3  S54 & S52


Genuine BMW - Corporate Logo
T#:214508
Part#: 33131204568
Ships in 1-2 days
3% off MSRP $ 108.99

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

$ 105.99 USD
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3% off MSRP
$ 108.99

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

$ 105.99 USD
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Genuine BMW Tapered Roller Bearing -

This item fits the following BMW Chassis:
E36

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Genuine BMW - Corporate Logo
T#:59180
Part#: 33111208047
Ships in 9 Business Days
3% off MSRP $ 165.99

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

$ 160.99 USD
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3% off MSRP
$ 165.99

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

$ 160.99 USD
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Genuine BMW Transmission Cover
This item fits the following BMW Chassis:
E30 M3,E36 M3,E30,E34,E36

Condor Speed Shop - Corporate Logo
T#:587122
Part#: DIFE30
Ships in 2 Business Days
$ 55.00 USD
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Condor Speed Shop's E30 solid differential bushing is designed for the street and the track. They use UHMW in all of their suspension bushings because it is stiff, has almost zero deflection yet also absorbs some vibration. It will outlast other types of rubber or urethane bushings. With their solid diff bushing, you won't have to worry about any more rubbery flex in your diff during hard acceleration.
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Genuine BMW - Corporate Logo
T#:59558
Part#: 33139065735
Ships in 1-2 days
2% off MSRP $ 231.99

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

$ 226.99 USD
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2% off MSRP
$ 231.99

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

$ 226.99 USD
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Genuine BMW Spacer Rings Set - 1,72Mm-1,96Mm
This item fits the following BMW Chassis:
E30 M3,E36 M3,E30,E34,E36



Genuine BMW OEM Speedometer Sensor
For vehicles with production date up to 09/1987
Genuine BMW - Corporate Logo
T#:10802
Part#: 62161369906
Ships in 1-2 days
2% off MSRP $ 147.99

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

$ 144.99 USD
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2% off MSRP
$ 147.99

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

$ 144.99 USD
Free Shipping on orders $49 and up
This Genuine BMW speedometer / pulse generator is mounted in the back of the differential and provides wheel speed information to the instrument cluster speedometer.

This item fits the following BMWs:
1984-1987 E30 BMW 318i 325e 325es 325i 325ic 325is
1982-1988 E28 BMW 524td 528e 533i 535i 535is M5
1983-6/1987 E24 BMW 633csi 635csi M6
1981-1987 E23 BMW 733i 735i
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Genuine BMW - Corporate Logo
T#:1062
Part#: 33112228335KIT
Ships in 3 Business Days
$ 660.00 USD
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$ 660.00 USD
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This factory finned differential cover bolts directly to the E30 diff housing. This is a must for track cars with limited slip differentials. The clutch packs in these diffs generate a lot of heat, the more heat you can dissipate the better. The fins on this cover will do just that. This is an inexpensive upgrade that may save you a lot of money down the road. Plus it looks cool.

Kit includes cover, gasket and all necessary hardware.:

  • 1 x 33112228335 - Differential Cover
  • 1 x 33111210405 - Differential Gasket
  • 2 x 07119914114 - Bolt
  • 4 x 07119921522 - Bolt
  • 2 x 07119921541 - Bolt

The following photo of the cover with bushing is just representation of this kit. 

This item fits the following BMWs:
1984-1991 E30 BMW 325e 325es 325i 325ic 325is M3

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Genuine BMW - Corporate Logo
T#:25199
Part#: 33111214144
In Stock
$ 8.99 USD
Free Shipping on orders $49 and up


Genuine BMW O-Ring - D=90Mm/3Mm
This item fits the following BMW Chassis:
E30 M3,E36 M3,E34 M5,E60 M5,E63 M6,E46 M3,E82 1M Coupe,E85 Z4M,E30,E34,E36,E38,E46,E63,E82,E85 Z4,E86 Z4,E90,E92,E93,F06,F10,F12,F13,F80 M3,F82 M4,F83

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Genuine BMW - Corporate Logo
T#:348476
Part#: 07119963355
In Stock
$ 3.40 USD
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When servicing the rear axle and differential, it is always best to replace this sealing washer to prevent any potential leaks from forming.

Genuine BMW - Corporate Logo
T#:368208
Part#: 33107505602
In Stock
$ 19.09 USD
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If your differential is leaking fluid, this is the likely cause. Restore the tight seal with this Genuine BMW seal to prevent potential damage or future failure.

 

Fits the following BMW Chassis:
E30, E36, E28, E34, E24, E23, E32, E38, Z3

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Genuine BMW - Corporate Logo
T#:1300
Part#: 33111210405
In Stock
$ 9.80

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

$ 9.51 USD
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$ 9.51 USD
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This is the differential cover gasket / diff seal for E30 3 series, 1984-1991.

Genuine BMW - Corporate Logo
T#:7923
Part#: 33117525064
In Stock
14% 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.

$ 9.99 USD
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14% 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.

$ 9.99 USD
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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 - 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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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 - Corporate Logo
T#:7582
Part#: 23221201330
Ships in 3 Business Days
$ 7.99 USD
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Genuine BMW Securing Plate -
This item fits the following BMW Chassis:
E30,E34

Genuine BMW - Corporate Logo
T#:19817
Part#: 33121200259
Ships in 5 Business Days
$ 10.99 USD
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Genuine BMW Clamping Bush -
This item fits the following BMW Chassis:
E30,E36

Genuine BMW - Corporate Logo
T#:58894
Part#: 33101211644
Ships in 8 Business Days
$ 13.99 USD
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Genuine BMW Impulse Sending Wheel -
This item fits the following BMW Chassis:
E30