Dorman 697-550 Differential Cover

Brand Dorman 697-550
Bolt Quantity 8
Carrier Main Cap Support No
Differential Cover Bolt Count 8
Differential Cover Bolts/Studs Included No
Differential Cover Carrier Main Cap Support No
Filler Plug Included Yes
Friction Material Thickness Silver
Gasket Or Seal Included No
Material Aluminum
Package Contents 1 Differential Cover
Fits BMW · 25 vehicles

OE FIX replacement. Additional bracing and thicker ribs help prevent future failures.

Aluminum construction. Lightweight cover with a durable silver finish.

Filler plug included. Ready for service without adding extra hardware.

Cross-references 33112227317 for the same application. See all 1.

$256.03Free shipping
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Differential Cover for BMW 3 Series

This Dorman OE FIX differential cover is built for select BMW 3 Series rear differentials where the original cover can crack at the mounting point and allow the rear axle to shift in place. Dorman 697-550 adds extra bracing and thicker ribs to address that failure point with a direct replacement design.

Key Features

  • Aluminum differential cover with a silver finish
  • OE FIX design adds bracing and thicker ribs for improved mounting support
  • Includes a filler plug for service access
  • 8-bolt differential cover pattern
  • Direct replacement for BMW 3 Series applications listed below
  • Cross-references BMW part number 33112227317

Detailed Description

Built for rear differential service on select BMW 325i, 325is, 328i, 328is, M3, 323i, and 323is models, this Dorman 697-550 differential cover addresses a known weak point in the original housing design. The aluminum construction and reinforced ribbing help support the mounting area, while the included filler plug simplifies fluid service. This part is a practical OE-style replacement for drivers looking to restore the differential cover on BMW 3 Series vehicles without repeating the original mounting failure.

This part cross-references BMW 33112227317 for the same application.

Vehicle Fitment

  • Fits 1998-1999 BMW 323i, N/A
  • Fits 1998-1999 BMW 323is, N/A
  • Fits 1996-1999 BMW 328i, N/A
  • Fits 1996-1999 BMW 328is, N/A
  • Fits 1995-1999 BMW M3, N/A
  • Fits 1992-1995 BMW 325i, N/A
  • Fits 1992-1995 BMW 325is, N/A

What It Helps Solve

  • Cracked differential cover mounting points
  • Rear axle movement caused by cover failure
  • Leaking differential housing at the cover
  • Need for a replacement cover with a service filler plug
  • Restoration of the rear differential mounting surface on BMW 3 Series models

Installation Notes and Tips

Confirm the 8-bolt cover pattern and verify vehicle application before installation. Transfer or replace sealing components as needed, since a gasket or seal is not included. Clean the mating surfaces thoroughly and inspect the differential housing for damage before installing the new cover.

Quality Assurance

Dorman engineers OE FIX replacement parts to address known failure points in original components. Part number 697-550 is built as a direct-fit replacement for the listed BMW applications and follows the original BMW cross-reference 33112227317.

This part fits 25 vehicles
Always verify fitment with your vehicle's VIN if unsure. Submodel & trim restrictions may apply.
YearMakeModelPositionNotes
1999BMW323iN/A
1999BMW323isN/A
1999BMW328iN/A
1999BMW328isN/A
1999BMWM3N/A
1998BMW323iN/A
1998BMW323isN/A
1998BMW328iN/A
1998BMW328isN/A
1998BMWM3N/A
1997BMW328iN/A
1997BMW328isN/A
1997BMWM3N/A
1996BMW328iN/A
1996BMW328isN/A
1996BMWM3N/A
1995BMW325iN/A
1995BMW325isN/A
1995BMWM3N/A
1994BMW325iN/A
1994BMW325isN/A
1993BMW325iN/A
1993BMW325isN/A
1992BMW325iN/A
1992BMW325isN/A
Directly replaces or cross-references 1 part number
Cross-reference numbers are provided for identification purposes only. Always confirm fitment before ordering.
33112227317