51 31 021 Removing and installing / replacing rubber frame for windscreen (top)

WARNING: This page does not describe the selected car, but rather 6 other vehicles, including the 2010 BMW 535xi, 2010 BMW 535i, 2009 BMW 535xi, 2009 BMW 535i, and 2008 BMW 535xi. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Necessary preliminary tasks:

Remove BOTH GUTTER STRIPS ON WINDSCREEN

IMPORTANT: Rubber frame (1) features an aluminium section inlay (2).
If necessary, detach adhesive tape (9) between rubber frame (1) and roof outer skin.
If necessary, remove fitted spacer buffers (8).
Carefully unwind rubber frame (1) (windscreen breakage).

NOTE: Tear-off lip (5) may be stuck to adhesive (4).
When rubber frame (1) is removed, tear-off lip (5) can tear off and remain in vehicle.

3 Windscreen
6 Bridge
7 Pinched butyl

Fig 1: Removing Rubber Frame
Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Replacement of rubber frame without windscreen removal:

There is no sealing lip (2) in area (A) on left/right.

Detach tear-off lip (4) from rubber frame (1).

If adhesive leaks over tear-off lip (4), this area must be cut out partially.

To facilitate installation, coat rubber frame (1) and body cutout with water.

Install rubber frame (1).

If necessary, pull liner* off adhesive tape (6) and press rubber frame (1) down firmly on roof outer skin.

3 Butylene tape
5 Aluminium strip

* Liner is the protective film on adhesive tape (6).

Fig 2: Identifying Tear-Off Lip, Rubber Frame And Adhesive Tape

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Replacement of rubber frame with removed or new windscreen:

There is no sealing lip (2) in area (A) on left/right.

Fit rubber frame (1) with tear-off lip (4).

After installing windscreen: If necessary, pull liner* off adhesive tape (6) and press rubber frame (1) down firmly on roof outer skin.

3 Butylene tape
5 Aluminium strip

* Liner is the protective film on adhesive tape (6).

Fig 3: Identifying Adhesive Tape And Rubber Frame

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.