Rear Differential Fluid Temperature High
2001-2005 BMW 325xi E46 2.5L I6 AWD
Description
The rear differential fluid temperature has exceeded the safe operating limit.
Symptoms
- Differential warning light
- Reduced traction system function
- eLSD or locking differential disabled
- Differential whine or noise
Common Causes
- Aggressive driving or towing in hot conditions
- Low differential fluid level
- Incorrect differential fluid specification
- Differential cooler blocked or damaged
- Worn differential bearings generating heat
Diagnostic Steps
- Check differential fluid level and condition
- Inspect differential cooler if equipped
- Verify correct fluid specification
- Listen for bearing noise
- Check for fluid leaks
Repair Notes
Allow to cool. Change fluid to correct specification. Repair cooler if blocked. Address any leaks.
Related Codes
Other Chassis Codes
- C0021LF Wheel Speed Sensor Range/Performance
- C0022RF Wheel Speed Sensor Range/Performance
- C0023LR Wheel Speed Sensor Range/Performance
- C0024RR Wheel Speed Sensor Range/Performance
- C0025LF Wheel Speed Sensor Circuit Intermittent
- C0026RF Wheel Speed Sensor Circuit Intermittent
- C0027LR Wheel Speed Sensor Circuit Intermittent
- C0028RR Wheel Speed Sensor Circuit Intermittent
- C0035Left Front Wheel Speed Sensor Circuit
- C0036Left Front Wheel Speed Signal Erratic
C0535 on Other Vehicles
Common Questions
What does code C0535 mean on a 2001-2005 BMW 325xi E46?
C0535 stands for "Rear Differential Fluid Temperature High". The rear differential fluid temperature has exceeded the safe operating limit.
What are the symptoms of C0535 on a BMW 325xi E46?
Common symptoms of C0535 include: Differential warning light, Reduced traction system function, eLSD or locking differential disabled, Differential whine or noise.
What causes C0535 on a 2001-2005 BMW 325xi E46?
Common causes of C0535 include: Aggressive driving or towing in hot conditions, Low differential fluid level, Incorrect differential fluid specification, Differential cooler blocked or damaged, Worn differential bearings generating heat.