51 43 060 Removing and installing/replacing armrest on rear left or right side trim panel

Necessary preliminary tasks:

E81/E82 only:

Release locking washers (1).

Remove sound insulation (2).

Installation:

If necessary, replace faulty lock washers (1).

Fig 1: Identifying Sound Insulation And Lock Washers

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Drill out welding spots (1) on side trim panel (2) with 8 mm dia. welding spot drill bit.

IMPORTANT: Risk of damage!
Only drill down to side trim panel area (2) so as not to damage the contact surface.

Remove welding residue from side trim panel (2) and armrest with a scalpel (for heavy-duty applications) if these components are to be reused.

Fig 2: Identifying Side Trim Panel Welding Spots

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Saw off welding pins (1) on armrest (2) down to measurement (A).

A = 2 ± 0.5 mm

Fig 3: Identifying Welding Pins On Armrest

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Installation:

Armrest:

position on side trim panel (1)
secure at front and rear with repair screws (2)
align until bores (3) are centrally located
tighten down, starting in middle

Fig 4: Positioning Armrest On Side Trim Panel
Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Tightening torque 51 43 4AZ .

NOTE: If bores (3) have not been correctly drilled through, increase tightening torque according in order to ensure that armrest is firmly seated.