51 41 081 Replacing armrest on front left or right door trim panel (long version or from 03/2007)

Necessary preliminary tasks:

Remove front door trim panel

Driver's side:

Remove handle recess

Passenger side:

Remove toggle switch . See 61 31 018 REMOVING AND INSTALLING/REPLACING CRUISE CONTROL SWITCH .
Remove door handle

IMPORTANT: Only drill down to door trim panel area so as not to damage the contact surface.
Armrest is only welded to door trim panel during initial fitting; if necessary, release nuts in place of welding spots.

Drill out welding spots (1) on door trim panel (2) with 8 mm dia. welding spot drill bit.

Remove armrest.

Fig 1: Identifying Welding Spots On Door Trim Panel

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Installation:

Secure armrest with nuts (3).