51 45 031 Replacing instrument panel trim

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2010 BMW 550i, 2009 BMW 550i, and 2008 BMW 550i. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Necessary preliminary tasks:

Remove INSTRUMENT PANEL TRIM .
Remove DECORATIVE STRIP ON INSTRUMENT PANEL ON LEFT .
Remove SPEAKER TRIM .
If necessary, remove SPEAKER .
If necessary, remove FRONT INNER and FRONT OUTER cup holder carriers.

Expand locking rings (1) and remove.

NOTE: Replace locking rings (1).

Remove top steering column cover (2).

Unclip bottom steering column cover (4) from retainers (3) and remove.

Fig 1: Removing Bottom Steering Column Cover

G05504032

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Release screws (1) and remove driver's side storage compartment (2).

Fig 2: Identifying Driver's Side Storage Compartment Screws

G05504033

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Release screws (1) and remove function carrier for light switch center (2).

Fig 3: Removing Function Carrier For Light Switch Centre

G05504034

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Release screws (1) and remove function carrier for instrument panel (2).

Fig 4: Identifying Instrument Panel Function Carrier Screws

G05504035

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Release screws (1) and remove frame for passenger airbag (2).

Release screws (3) and remove function carrier for right decorative strip (4).

Fig 5: Identifying Right Decorative Strip Function Carrier Screws

G05504036

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Removal all metal nuts (1) from instrument panel trim (2).

Unclip trims for defrost outlet (3) on outside in each case and remove.

Fig 6: Removing Trims For Defrost Outlet

G05504037

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.