51 45 031 Replacing Instrument Panel Trim

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2010 BMW X5, 2009 BMW X5, 2008 BMW X5, and 2007 BMW X5. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Necessary preliminary tasks:

Remove instrument panel trim . See 51 45 030 REMOVING AND INSTALLING INSTRUMENT PANEL TRIM .
Remove right glovebox . See 51 16 ... REMOVING AND INSTALLING INSERT FOR RIGHT GLOVEBOX .
Remove decorative strip on instrument panel, driver's side, on right . See 51 45 374 REMOVING AND INSTALLING/REPLACING DECORATIVE STRIP ON INSTRUMENT PANEL ON DRIVER'S SIDE ON RIGHT .

Unclip wiring harness for glovebox (1) and remove.

Detach right knee protection (2).

Unclip frame for steering column cutout (4).

Release screws (5) and remove ventilation ducts (3).

Remove passenger airbag (6). See 72 12 000 REMOVING AND INSTALLING/REPLACING AIRBAG MODULE ON PASSENGER SIDE .

Remove cable for glovebox emergency release (7).

Fig 1: Identifying Screws And Ventilation Ducts

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Release screws (1).

Remove center function carrier (2).

Fig 2: Identifying Screws And Centre Function Carrier

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.