Differential Fluid 75W-90 (1 L) BMW Genuine

Differential Fluid  75W-90 (1 L) BMW Genuine

1. OEM Product Description & Part Numbers

• The fluid is listed as “75W-90 Differential Fluid (1 Liter)” for BMW.
• Primary BMW part number: 07-51-2-293-972 (often shown as 07512293972).
• Another number used: 83222365987 labeled “Synthetik OSP 1L 75W-90”.
• It is a synthetic gear/differential oil, GL-5 rated, for open (non-limited-slip) differentials.

2. Fitment / Application Notes

• Intended for BMW differentials (front or rear) for non-limited slip (non-LSD) units up to a certain production date (pre-July 2011 for many units) according to one source.
• The specification list from one retailer: “Differential Fluid – 75W90 SAF-XO GL-5 Gear Oil – 1 Liter – For vehicles with open/non-limited slip differentials” with part number 07512293972.
• As a general guideline on BMW forums: many BMW models (various series) use this 75W-90 GL-5 oil when they have open diffs.
• Important: For limited-slip differentials, or for newer models, BMW may require a different spec (for example 75W-85) so always check your vehicle’s VIN / service manual.

3. Specifications & What to Check

• Viscosity: SAE 75W-90.
• Performance Rating: GL-5 (hypoid gear oil rating) for open diffs.
• Make sure it meets BMW’s required spec for your differential: for example BMW lists SAF-XO for non-LSD up to 7/2011.
• Always check differential type: open vs LSD (limited slip), model year, and BMW’s service bulletin/fitment for your specific car.
• On forums some note that later BMWs changed spec to 70W-80 GL-5 or similar.

4. Alternative Brands / Part Numbers

If you cannot source the BMW OEM fluid, here are some suitable alternative fluids (provided they meet the same spec and you verify your vehicle’s requirements).

• Motul Gear 300 75W-90 GL5 – cited as a good alternative for open diffs in BMWs.
• Castrol Syntrax Long Life 75W-90 GL-5 – forum suggestion for BMW open diffs when OEM is hard to find.
• Red Line 75W-90 GL-5 Gear Oil – high performance alternative; ensure compatibility with BMW open diff spec.

Alternative Part Numbers / Cross-References

• BMW: 07512293972 / 07-51-2-293-972
• BMW: 83222365987
• ECS Tuning lists for this fluid: “Mfg Part# 07512293972 / 07-51-2-293-972” and ECS Part# ES#55807.

5. Summary & Recommendation

• Use the OEM BMW fluid if you want exact match and worry-free fitment.
• Confirm your vehicle’s differential type (open vs LSD) and spec year because if your car requires a different spec (e.g., 75W-85 or 70W-80) you should use that instead.
• If using an alternative brand, ensure it explicitly states compatibility with BMW open differential GL-5 75W-90 (or whatever your spec is).
• When changing differential fluid: make sure you also replace the crush washer / drain plug as recommended, and that fluid level is correct.