51 16 ... Removing and installing/replacing center armrest sliding unit

Necessary preliminary tasks: 

• Remove rear compartment fresh air grill. Refer to 64 22 190 REMOVING AND INSTALLING/REPLACING FRESH AIR GRILL IN REAR OF CAR .

Release screws (1).

Fig 1: Releasing Screws

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Version without eject box:

Open center armrest (1) and remove storage tray (2) at same time.

Fig 2: Removing Storage Tray

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Replacement: 

Remove armrest from cover on center armrest. Refer to 51 16 ... REMOVING AND INSTALLING/REPLACING ARMREST ON COVER ON CENTER ARMREST .

Version with eject box:

• Disconnect plug connection(s) for eject box, refer to 84 11 510 REMOVING AND INSTALLING/REPLACING EJECT BOX (V SERIES CELLULAR TELEPHONE) , 84 11 515 REMOVING AND INSTALLING/REPLACING EJECT BOX or 84 11 610 REMOVING AND INSTALLING/REPLACING EJECT BOX (CORDLESS KEYPAD HANDSET)

If necessary, detach plug connection (1) with holder from center armrest (2).

Fig 3: Disconnecting Plug Connection

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Remove both springs (1) on left/right from center armrest (2).

Fig 4: Removing Springs From Center Armrest

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Installation: 

Ensure ends of springs are in correct position.

Raise center armrest and drive out split pin (1) on left/right from inside outwards.

Fig 5: Driving Out Split Pin

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Installation: 

Fit split pin (1) with notch facing outwards in hinge (2).

Pull swivel arms (1) forwards.

Fig 6: Levering Out Trim

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Lever out trim(s) (2) and feed cable (3) out of swivel arms (1).

Remove center armrest (1) from storage tray (2).

Fig 7: Removing Center Armrest From Storage Tray

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Replacement: 

Remove armrest from cover on center armrest. Refer to 51 16 ... REMOVING AND INSTALLING/REPLACING ARMREST ON COVER ON CENTER ARMREST .