BMW Differential and Gearing Upgrades for BMW 3 Series E90 (2006-2011)

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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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Team MFactory 3.46 Differential With Helical LSD - E9X 335, E82/88 13...
For vehicles with manual transmission, or automatic transmission built prior to 08/2007
affirm Starting At 0% APR - Subject To Eligibility. See Lending Terms
For vehicles with manual transmission. Includes $500 core charge. The provided core must be a 3.46 ratio to be accepted.
Team MFactory - Corporate Logo
T#:583624
Part#: E92215346KT
Ships on Jul 30, 2026
$ 2,382.99 USD
Free Shipping
$ 2,382.99 USD
Free Shipping

The best way to gain a prominent advantage over the competition is to do it with the MFactory Helical Limited Slip Differential. The smooth consistent distribution of power to the wheels with the MFactory Helical LSD puts the power-to-the-ground and maximizes your vehicle's traction. A must for any car be it street, strip, or track.

What exactly does an LSD do you ask? Without an LSD your car is actually 1 wheel drive, in that it can't supply torque to both wheels at the same time and will only supply torque to the wheel with less grip, which is what the shortfall is to an open differential (what most vehicles have).

An LSD only lets the wheels spin at different speeds by a limited amount (typically this is a percentage difference) which is when the differential locks and both wheels get power. This is not how locked differentials work such as in off-road trucks which supply equal torque and rotational speed to both rear wheels at the same time, which can cause issues with handling.

Features:

Industry first, 30-day Feel the Torque™ money back guarantee and a Limited-Lifetime Warranty!
Forged and Cryo-tempered
Advanced Shot Peening technology for increased surface hardness
Designed to withstand the extreme shock loads of competition-level drag racing
Maintenance-free gears eliminate the need for special fluid or rebuilds associated with typical plate LSDs.
Lock-free operation ensures no adverse steering response.
**As a break-in procedure, we recommend changing the fluid after the first 3-400 miles of use.**

Includes $500 core charge to be refunded when we receive your rebuildable core.

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Race Polyurethane Differential Bushing, Rear Position - E8X, E9X ...
affirm Starting At 0% APR - Subject To Eligibility. See Lending Terms
Powerflex Black Series - Corporate Logo
T#:376534
Part#: PFR5-1226B
Ships in 1 Business Day
$ 52.99 USD
Free Shipping on orders $49 and up

Differential bushings are responsible for keeping the differential in solid alignment while dampening drivetrain vibration. While OE rubber bushings are fine when they are new from the factory, aged and worn out rubber bushings create a multitude of issues that can range from annoying to dangerous. As a factory bushing ages, it begins to harden and become brittle. When this happens the bushing will actually shrink and allow for movement at the differential mounting point. At this point, the differential is free to shift under load causing a noticeable clunking noise under acceleration and deceleration and massively increasing the stress on the driveshaft and axles. Manual transmissions suffer the worst from this as it can make shifting difficult since the differential will shift when the clutch is engaged and disengaged.

By replacing these bushings with full polyurethane, the movement is eliminated since the mounting point is supported by a much stiffer material that will not harden or shrink over time. This means less stress on the driveshaft and axles and greater longevity of supporting components. 

Powerflex Black Series bushings are the ultimate in track and race bushings. Featuring 95A durometer polyurethane, Black Series bushings are 25% stiffer than street bushings. Engineered to perform, Powerflex performance polyurethane control arm bushings offer a supreme level of control, while still providing enough comfort for the street, with advanced polyurethane that reduces NVH that often accompanies lesser bushings. Expect improved acceleration response, more direct shifting feel and overall improved drivetrain composure with Powerflex performance polyurethane bushings.

Poweflex is a leading manufacturer of aftermarket suspension bushings. Using state of the art design and manufacturing, all replacement bushings are engineered to out-perform and out-last the ones that came in the car. Each line of bushings is meticulously tested and then re-tested to ensure perfect fitment and enduring quality through the life of the vehicle. A full lifetime warranty backs every one of their products and demonstrates the level of confidence and commitment Powerflex has to their customers. 

This part fits the following BMWs:
2008 - 2013 E82 1 Series Coupe 128i 135i 135is 1M Coupe
2006 - 2008 E90 323i 325i 325xi 328i 328xi 330i 330xi 335i 335xi
2009 - 2012 E90 323i 323i 328i 328xi 335d 335i 335i xDrive 335xi
2006 - 2009 E91 325xi 328i 328xi
2009 - 2011 E91 328i 328xi 
2007 - 2013 E92 328i 328xi 335i 335xi
2007 - 2013 E93 328i 335i

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Whitbread CNC Machined Differential Cover - E8X/E9X
affirm Starting At 0% APR - Subject To Eligibility. See Lending Terms
Whitbread Performance Innovations - Corporate Logo
T#:4469676
Part#: 33117518412
Ships on Jul 31, 2026
$ 599.99 USD
Free Shipping
$ 599.99 USD
Free Shipping
This differential cover is 100% bolt-in and made in-house from 6061 aluminum. It includes all hardware and a magnetic drain plug to allow for easy gear oil changes. This is a great way to add form and function to your E8X or E9X! WPI or Whitbread Performance Innovations prides themselves on their quality automotive performance parts, service, custom metal fabrication, and machining. When it comes to machined-in-house goods, look no further!
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Team MFactory 2.56 Pumpkin With Helical LSD - E82/88 135, E9X 335 w/ ...
For vehicles with DCT transmission
affirm Starting At 0% APR - Subject To Eligibility. See Lending Terms
Team MFactory - Corporate Logo
T#:597536
Part#: E92-215-256KT
Ships in 8 Business Days
$ 3,036.99 USD
Free Shipping
$ 3,036.99 USD
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Price includes $500 core charge *Any defects or warranty clams will have to go directly to Team M Factory*

Limited Slip Differential
affirm Starting At 0% APR - Subject To Eligibility. See Lending Terms
Wavetrac - Corporate Logo
T#:363876
Part#: 30309172WKWVT
Ships in 2 Business Days
$ 1,245.99 USD
Free Shipping
$ 1,245.99 USD
Free Shipping
Wavetrac® Torque Biasing Differential 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. Additional technical information on the Wavetrac® Differential can be found at the following link: http://www.wavetrac.net/technical.htm For vehicles with a welded ring gear: This differential requires the welded ring gear from your stock differential to be removed, drilled, and installed at a professional machine shop. Bolt Kit ES4368731Wavetrac® Torque Biasing Differential 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. Additional technical information on the Wavetrac® Differential can be found at the following link: http://www.wavetrac.net/technical.htm For vehicles with a welded ring gear: This differential requires the welded ring gear from your stock differential to be removed, drilled, and installed at a professional machine shop. Bolt Kit T#1377522 is required to install the ring gear to the new differential. No technical drawings or instructions are provided, please check with your machine shop before purchasing this item and/or the required hardware kit! No refunds or replacements will be offered if the differential has been installed or machined or in the event of incorrect ring gear installation or differential failure due to incorrect installation.
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Differential And LSD Tune
affirm Starting At 0% APR - Subject To Eligibility. See Lending Terms
OS Giken - Corporate Logo
T#:34382136
Part#: BM237HAKT
Ships in 2 Business Days
$ 2,100.00 USD
Free Shipping on orders $49 and up
Upgrade to a better performing LSD, includes tune.

Team MFactory 3.46 Pumpkin With Helical LSD - E9X 335, E82/88 135i ...
For vehicles with automatic transmission For vehicles with vehicles with automatic transmission with production up to 02/2007
affirm Starting At 0% APR - Subject To Eligibility. See Lending Terms
Team MFactory - Corporate Logo
T#:384896
Part#: MF-TRS-05E92XKT
Ships in 3 Business Days
$ 2,382.45 USD
$ 2,382.45 USD

The best way to gain a prominent advantage over the competition is to do it with the MFactory Helical Limited Slip Differential. The smooth consistent distribution of power to the wheels with the MFactory Helical LSD puts the power-to-the-ground and maximizes your vehicle's traction. A must for any car be it street, strip, or track.

What exactly does an LSD do you ask? Without an LSD your car is actually 1 wheel drive, in that it can't supply torque to both wheels at the same time and will only supply torque to the wheel with less grip, which is what the shortfall is to an open differential (what most vehicles have).

An LSD only lets the wheels spin at different speeds by a limited amount (typically this is a percentage difference) which is when the differential locks and both wheels get power. This is not how locked differentials work such as in off-road trucks which supply equal torque and rotational speed to both rear wheels at the same time, which can cause issues with handling.

Features:

An industry first, 30-day Feel the Torque™ money back guarantee and a Limited-Lifetime Warranty!
Forged and Cryo-tempered
Advanced Shot Peening technology for increased surface hardness
Designed to withstand the extreme shock loads of competition-level drag racing
Maintenance-free gears eliminate the need for special fluid or rebuilds associated with typical plate LSDs.
Lock-free operation ensures no adverse steering response.
**As a break-in procedure, we recommend changing the fluid after the first 3-400 miles of use.**

Includes $500 core charge to be refunded when we receive your rebuildable core.

Show More Show Less
E46 M3, E9X M3, E34 M5, E39 M5, Z4 M OS Giken Super Lock Limited Slip...
affirm Starting At 0% APR - Subject To Eligibility. See Lending Terms
OS Giken - Corporate Logo
T#:1387
Part#: BM237-HA
Ships in 2 Business Days
$ 1,950.00 USD
Free Shipping
$ 1,950.00 USD
Free Shipping
The M Dynamic limited slip unit on the M3 is designed to be a pure street car differential. It's simply not up to the rigors of professional or amateur racing. The OS Giken Super Lock LSD is giant step up in from a stock M3 lsd unit. It's ready for the extreme conditions of racing, offers 100% progressive locking capability, and is able to do this while operating smoothly and quietly. It's use of advanced technologies that make it perfect for both street cars AND pro race cars... and everything in between. We're excited to be carrying the OS Giken LSD unit in our performance catalog, as we've been using them in our own Championship winning M3 race cars.

OS Giken incorporated revolutionary new ideas when developing the their own limited slip diff, utilizing their accumulated racing knowledge and experience and over 4 years of development. Their design uses an unprecedented number of friction plates (up to 28 total!) for better locking force, better engagement/disengagement, and less generated heat. The end result of their efforts is the OS Giken's OS Super Lock LSD which offers incredible durability and reliability on street and track driven BMWs. The use of highest quality materials, precise machining, forged gears and sound engineering makes this LSD durable and reliable enough for road racing performance (which we can personally vouch for!). This is such a great design, in that it can be used in any situation -- whether it's for a street car, or a 100% Professional race car. Zero break-in required. Super smooth and quiet engagement, and 100% progressive locking capability. Professional installation is recommended.

This Limited Slip Differential Unit fits the following BMWs:
2001-2006 E46 M3 coupe & convertible
2008-2013 E9X M3 coupe & convertible
1991-1995 E34 M5 sedan
1999-2003 E39 M5 sedan
2006-2008 E85 Z4M Z4 M Coupe, Z4 M Roadster
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Genuine BMW Rear Differential Carrier Bushing
Rear Position
affirm Starting At 0% APR - Subject To Eligibility. See Lending Terms
Genuine BMW - Corporate Logo
T#:25596
Part#: 33176770866
Ships in 1 day
13% 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.

$ 72.99 USD
Free Shipping on orders $49 and up
13% 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.

$ 72.99 USD
Free Shipping on orders $49 and up


Genuine BMW Rubber Mounting Rear -
This item fits the following BMW Chassis:
E82,E83 X3,E85,E86,E90,E92,E93


Rear Differential Mounts - OEM Rubber - E82, E9X
affirm Starting At 0% APR - Subject To Eligibility. See Lending Terms
Packaged by Turner - Corporate Logo
T#:386282
Part#: E9X-DIFF-MOUNTS
Ships in 1 day
$ 193.25 USD
Free Shipping
$ 193.25 USD
Free Shipping

This package of OEM E82 E90 E92 diff mounts replaces the stock rubber diff bushings. On a tuned 335i you may have noticed more driveline shudder or problems hooking up during hard launches. What happens is the stock rubber bushings are under constant flex as engine torque is transmitted through the differential. Under normal driving with a stock car the bushings are rarely stressed. But factor in significant additional torque from a tuned N54/N55 and the stock rubber will quickly show its weaknesses. You may have even broken a diff bolt or two as the heavy differential shifts around. Even non-turbo E82 and E9X models may benefit from fresh bushings.

This is a set of stock rubber bushings, made by OEM supplier Lemforder. They are the same as the Genuine BMW E9X diff mount bushings, but without the more expensive branding. If you're turned off by potential side effects of urethane or Delrin then the OEM diff mounts are your best option. The OEM mounts fit and perform just like the originals so there is no second guessing their quality. If you're looking for an upgrade we offer E9X solid Delrin and aluminum diff mounts that work well, even in street applications.

E9X Diff Mount Set includes:

  • 33176760287 x 2, front differential mount
  • 33176770866 x 1, rear differential mount
  • (new hardware is optional and can be ordered separately below)

    This item fits the following BMWs:
    2008-2012 E82 BMW 128i 135i
    2006-2011 E90 BMW 325i 325xi 328i 328xi 328i xDrive 330i 330xi 335d 335i 335xi 335i xDrive - Sedan
    2006-2012 E91 BMW 325xi 328i 328xi 328i xDrive - Wagon
    2007-2013 E92 BMW 328i 328xi 328i xDrive 335i 335is 335xi 335i xDrive - Coupe
    2007-2013 E93 BMW 328i 335i - Convertible
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Genuine BMW Axle Seal Driver - BMW E46 M3, E9X M3, E82 1M, E39 M5, E6...
affirm Starting At 0% APR - Subject To Eligibility. See Lending Terms
Genuine BMW - Corporate Logo
T#:172491
Part#: 83300495143
Ships in 1 day
$ 82.99 USD
Free Shipping
$ 82.99 USD
Free Shipping
This Axle Seal Driver is used to install 76x50x10 axle seals on TYP210 and TYP215 differentials, ensuring the seals are fully seated.
At-Front Differential - E60, E61, E90, E92
affirm Starting At 0% APR - Subject To Eligibility. See Lending Terms
Genuine BMW - Corporate Logo
T#:55843
Part#: 31507575785
Ships in 7 Business Days
4% off MSRP $ 2,833.99

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

$ 2,706.99 USD
4% off MSRP
$ 2,833.99

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

$ 2,706.99 USD


Genuine BMW At-Front Differential - I=3,08
This item fits the following BMW Chassis:
E90,E92