51 45 031 Replacing instrument panel trim

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 INSTRUMENT PANEL TRIM .
Remove RIGHT GLOVEBOX .
Remove DECORATIVE STRIP ON INSTRUMENT PANEL, DRIVER'S SIDE on right.
Remove START/STOP SWITCH .
Remove FRONT SPEAKER CARRIER .
Remove RIGHT FRESH-AIR GRILLE .

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).

Remove cable for glovebox emergency release (7).

Fig 1: Identifying Glovebox, Emergency Release, Knee Protection, Ventilation Ducts, Passenger Airbag, Steering Column Cutout Frame And Screws

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Release screws (1).

Remove center function carrier (2).

Fig 2: Identifying Centre Function Carrier And Screws

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.