[MbahSurip]

Hi all,

The rear-left output/half shaft on the rear axle of my 2007 335i (manual trans) broke. The outer CV rubber boot is torn (the ring clip that holds it to the shaft is gone) and made the CV join dried. It's pretty much toasted and I need to replace it. Actually, 1 year ago this happened and I brought my car to the dealer to get it replaced (dropped $1,200 for it ). It came with a 2 year/unlimited mileage warranty. Yesterday I came to the dealer in Fremont (many say they're mod-friendly), and guess what, they said it's not covered under warranty. It's unusual that the clip is snapped like that and tears the boot. They also blame my lowered KW suspension and conclude they won't replace it under warranty.

So, I need to buy the rear axle (half shaft) replacement. When I searched around, I found out that the OEM part numbers of the rear axle for 328/128 (N51,N52) and 335/135 (N54,N55) are different. Particularly for the rear LEFT axle, the part numbers are also different for manual and auto trans.

My questions are: What is the difference between all these axles? Are they interchangeable (some websites imply this)? What happens if I put the auto-trans axle to my car (which is manual trans)? Also, any cons about the cheaper aftermarket axles?

The part number for 2007 335i rear left axle (manual trans) is: 33207568731


Please help. Thanks!

[Blaster400]

It is my understanding that the early 335 axles are interchangeable between automatic and manual cars. But the manual axles are stronger so I'd recommend going with those. Drive Shaft Shop will re-build your damaged axels to handle 1000 HP for around $1,000. Rebuilt MT axles should also be okay as a cheaper solution.

[carebear85]

Did you ever find out if the Ackerman was interchangeable?