Drive shafts for BMW 1 Serie 116 I E87
Looking for a replacement drive shaft for your BMW 1 Serie 116 I E87? As driveline specialists, we supply model-specific components engineered to keep your car's power delivery seamless....
Products for Drive shafts for BMW 1 Serie 116 I E87
- Position: Rear right
- Total length: 664 mm
- Splines wheel side: 27
- ABS teeth: 48
- Position: Rear left
- Flange diameter: 94 mm
- Total length: 612 mm
- Splines wheel side: 27
- ABS teeth: 48
- Flange diameter: 94 mm
- Total length: 610 mm
- Splines wheel side: 27
Drive shafts for BMW 1 Serie 116 I E87
The drive shaft is one of the most critical components on your BMW 1 Serie 116 I E87 when it comes to transferring power from the engine to the road. As a rear-wheel-drive compact car, the E87 chassis places specific demands on its drivetrain to maintain the dynamic handling the marque is renowned for. A defective or worn drive shaft does not just impair driving dynamics; it can also cause consequential damage to the differential or wheel bearings if not sorted out in good time.
At CVJoint24, you will find drive shafts engineered specifically for the 116i variant of the E87 generation. We understand the importance of precision and durability, which is why our products are carefully chosen to match or exceed original specifications. Choosing the right components ensures your car remains safe and dependable over many thousands of kilometres, whether on daily commutes or long motorway trips.
What does a drive shaft do on a BMW 1 Serie 116 I E87?
The main role of the drive shaft on a BMW 1 Serie 116 I E87 is to transmit the torque produced by the engine and gearbox to the rear wheels. Because the E87 is rear-wheel drive, the drive shafts are installed between the rear differential and the wheel hubs. Each driveshaft consists of an axle bar with two CV joints – an inner and an outer joint – that allow the assembly to flex with suspension movement and wheel travel without interrupting power transfer.
The inner CV joint sits closest to the differential and primarily accommodates axial plunge as the car bounces over road unevenness. The outer CV joint sits at the hub and is designed to manage articulation angles. On the 116i model, keeping these components in good order is essential to reduce driveline drag and ensure its power reaches the tarmac smoothly without vibration or noises.
Common signs of wear
Several clear symptoms point to a failing drive shaft on your BMW 1 Serie 116 I E87. One of the most typical signs is vibration felt throughout the cabin under acceleration. These shakes are often caused by play inside the inner constant velocity joint or an unbalanced shaft. If the vibration disappears the moment you lift off the accelerator, the drive shaft is very likely the culprit.
Another common warning sign is a clicking or knocking sound while driving, especially noticeable during tight low-speed turns; while more prevalent on front-wheel-drive setups, rear-wheel-drive cars also suffer when the outer joints wear out. Furthermore, you should always check for grease leaks around the CV boots. If a boot tears, lubricant escapes and grit enters, quickly destroying the precision bearings inside the joint.
How to choose the correct drive shaft
Selecting the right drive shaft for a BMW 1 Serie 116 I E87 requires care, as variations exist depending on gearbox type (manual or automatic) as well as production year. Key differences often include overall length, the number of splines on the shaft ends, and whether the vehicle requires an integrated ABS ring on the shaft.
To make sure you receive the correct replacement part, simply select your car's make, model and engine variant in our store. This narrows the selection to components that are technically compatible with your specific car. Also check whether you need the left- or right-hand side, as driveshaft lengths often differ across the rear axle of the E87 platform. With our accurate fitment, you can order with complete peace of mind.
Related parts to inspect
It is good practice to check these related pages for the same vehicle when working on your drive shaft:
When one drivetrain component shows wear, adjacent components on the same car often require attention as well. Checking these exact parts pages for the BMW 1 Serie 116 I E87 makes it simpler to establish whether the issue stems solely from the drive shaft or from another part of the driveline.
This is especially important on platforms where vibrations, play and unwanted sounds can travel between connected driveline assemblies. A quick check of related categories minimises the risk of replacing one component while missing an adjacent part that shares the same underlying fault.
- BMW 1 Serie 116 I E87
- Outer CV joints for BMW 1 Serie 116 I E87
- Inner CV joints for BMW 1 Serie 116 I E87
- Propeller shafts for BMW 1 Serie 116 I E87
Why buy from CVJoint24?
CVJoint24 is the international shop of a Swedish driveline specialist shipping across the EU from our central warehouse in Helsingborg, Sweden. We offer an extensive inventory dedicated entirely to drivetrain parts, providing a depth of technical expertise that general car-parts retailers often lack. When you order from us, you get quality spare parts backed by staff who understand the engineering behind your BMW 1 Serie 116 I E87. We focus on dependable quality and precise fitment so your repair goes smoothly.
We dispatch fast right across Europe, because we know how important it is to get your car back on the road. By selecting your exact make, model and engine, you keep the risk of ordering the wrong part to a minimum. Our aim is always to supply top-tier parts at the right price, supported by specialist knowledge tailored to maintaining premium vehicles like BMW. Welcome to a driveline specialist that knows power transmission inside out.
Frequently asked questions about drive shafts for BMW 1 Series 116 I E87
What are the most common symptoms of a failing drive shaft on a BMW E87?
The most common signs are body vibrations during acceleration, clicking noises when cornering, and grease splatters on the inside of the wheel caused by a torn CV boot.
Does the same drive shaft fit both manual and automatic 116i models?
No, there are often differences in length and splines between manual and automatic gearboxes. Always select your specific vehicle details to ensure you receive the correct version.
Do I need to replace both drive shafts at the same time?
It is not strictly necessary, but if one side is worn out, the other side is often nearing the end of its service life as well. Many drivers choose to replace both to be on the safe side.
Are CV boots and grease included when I buy a complete drive shaft?
Yes, when you purchase a complete drive shaft from us, it comes fully assembled with inner and outer CV joints, boots, and the correct amount of grease.
How does a damaged ABS ring on the drive shaft affect my BMW?
A cracked or corroded ABS ring sends faulty signals to the vehicle's sensors, which can cause the ABS warning light to illuminate or trigger unintended ABS intervention under braking.
Is it difficult to replace a drive shaft yourself on a BMW 1 Series?
It requires proper tools and some mechanical experience, as the shaft is fitted into the differential and wheel hub. For an experienced DIY mechanic, however, it is entirely feasible.