51 11... Removing and installing/replacing holder for side view camera on left or right

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2013 BMW X5 M, 2012 BMW X5 M, 2011 BMW X5 M, and 2010 BMW X5 M. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Necessary preliminary tasks

Remove side view video camera
Pull side view video camera holder off bumper with a suitable tool (holder is secured with double-sided adhesive tape.)
New holder is painted in vehicle color

General remarks on working with adhesive film (1)

If adhesive films exhibit partly detached protective film on delivery, they must not be bonded.
Store adhesive films at 5 °C to 40 °C.
Bonding at room and object temperature 25° ± 5° C.
Temperatures between 40 and 50 °C significantly increase initial adhesion.

Fig 1: Identifying Adhesive Film
Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Installation note:

Identification (2) indicates on which side of the vehicle holder (1) is bonded in place.

For installation position observe shape of holder (1).

Fig 2: Identifying Holder With Identification Mark

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Degrease adhesive area on bumper and holder with solvent (e. g. cleaning agent R2) and remove other residue as well. Never use paint thinner!

NOTE: When using solvent: Observe the air drying time of > 1 minute.

Wear protective gloves.

Do not touch the adhesive area after cleaning.

First apply adhesive film to holder.
Then press onto inside of bumper by applying force (approx. 10 kg) for at least 1 minute.

IMPORTANT: Load can only be applied to the bond after a period of 2 minutes. This waiting time is absolutely essential.