51 45 031 Replacing instrument panel trim

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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 Top Steering Column Cover

G03261738

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

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

Fig 2: Removing Driver's Side Storage Compartment

G03261739

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 Center

G03261740

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

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

Fig 4: Removing Function Carrier For Instrument Panel

G03261741

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: Removing Frame For Passenger Airbag

G03261742

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 Metal Nuts From Instrument Panel Trim

G03261743

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.