If your not super handy with a wrench I would replace the motor itself for $135 off amazon if it was me. That plate isn't the easiest thing to get off to get at the gear. I will be doing the motor when I get over the flu on my wifes x5.

Also I would find another indy

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Just BMW's - All cars and trucks was two pages long
1994 318is
1997 528i
2000 323i
2001 X5 3.0 auto
2005 X5 3.0 auto
2011 535xi auto
2013 X5 xdrive35 Turbo
More are at my website

Aftermarket E53 Radio Install