Dorman 986-444 Drive Shaft - Rear

Dorman 986-444 Rear Driveshaft

Dorman 986-444 is a complete rear drive shaft assembly for select BMW applications with Sequential Manual Gearbox (SMG). It arrives pre-balanced and ready to install, with new yokes, steel tubing, constant velocity joints, and universal joints already assembled for a direct replacement approach.

• Complete drive shaft assembly for rear driveline service
• Pre-balanced for smoother operation after replacement
• 100% new yokes, tubes, CV joints, and universal joints
• Steel shaft construction with 2.5 in. shaft diameter
• Pre-greased with grease fitting included
• Bolt-on end design at both ends
• Phased at 0 degrees
• Compressed length: 55.625 in.; drive shaft length: 56.125 in.
• Standard replacement grade

Fitment Details

Compatible with rear driveline applications on 2004 BMW 325i, 2004 BMW 325Ci, and 2006 BMW 325i with Sequential Manual Gearbox (SMG). This Dorman 986-444 driveshaft also cross-references BMW 26117523925 for the same application.

Product Overview

This rear drive shaft is built for BMW 325i and BMW 325Ci SMG-equipped models that need a replacement driveline assembly with the correct length, bolt-on ends, and phased setup. The steel shaft uses a multi-piece design with adjustable overall length, a 1 in. max slip, and a 0.065 in. wall thickness to match the listed application requirements. Dorman 986-444 is a practical option when servicing driveline vibration, worn joints, or a damaged shaft on these BMW rear-wheel-drive vehicles.

Common Issues This Part Can Address

• Driveline vibration from worn or out-of-balance shaft components
• Clunking or driveline noise from failed universal joints
• Play or looseness caused by worn CV joint components
• Damage to the original shaft tube, yokes, or mounting ends
• Loss of smooth power transfer in rear BMW driveline service

Installation Notes and Tips

Verify rear fitment by matching the vehicle year, model, and SMG configuration before installation. Confirm compressed length, flange-to-flange length, and bolt-on end style against the original shaft to ensure proper alignment. Because the assembly is pre-balanced and phased, install it in the correct orientation and inspect related driveline mounts and hardware condition during service.

Quality Assurance

Dorman supplies this drive shaft as a complete replacement assembly with new internal and external wear components, pre-greased for service readiness. The part is built to standard replacement specifications for the listed BMW applications.