51 12 156 Removing and installing/replacing rear bumper trim

Necessary preliminary tasks:

Remove both REAR LIGHTS .

NOTE: Description is shown on the E82 by way of example. There may be differences in detail in the case of other models.
Prior to removing, pay attention to the exact installation position with respect to the adjoining components.

Release screws (1) on wheel arch trim (2) on left/right.

Installation:

Make sure wheel arch trim (2) is in correct position.

Fig 1: Identifying Screws On Wheel Arch Trim

G10021203

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

NOTE: Picture shows E92. Screw (1) for E82/E88 not installed.

Bend wheel arch cover (2) in area (A) to one side and release screw (3) on left/right.

Fig 2: Identifying Wheel Arch Cover And Screw

G10021204

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Release screws (1) on bumper trim (2).

Fig 3: Identifying Bumper Trim Screws

G10021205

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

IMPORTANT: Risk of damage!
Do not detach bumper trim (1) at sides
The following work must be carried out with a second person assisting:

NOTE: Picture shows E92.

Pull bumper trim (1) towards rear and release from catches (2).

Fig 4: Detaching Bumper Trim

G10021206

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Press down catch (2).

Remove bumper trim (1) towards rear with aid of a 2nd person.

If necessary, disconnect plug connection on ultrasonic transducers. See 66 20 537 REMOVING AND INSTALLING/REPLACING REAR MIDDLE RIGHT ULTRASONIC SENSOR , 66 20 536 REMOVING AND INSTALLING/REPLACING REAR MIDDLE LEFT ULTRASONIC SENSOR , 66 20 535 REMOVING AND INSTALLING/REPLACING REAR RIGHT ULTRASONIC SENSOR or 66 20 534 REMOVING AND INSTALLING/REPLACING REAR LEFT ULTRASONIC SENSOR .

Fig 5: Identifying Bumper Trim And Catch

G10021207

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Installation:

Catches (1) and guides (2) must not be damaged.

If necessary, replace faulty sheet nuts (3) on left/right.

Replacement:

If necessary, modify ultrasonic transducer. See 66 20 537 REMOVING AND INSTALLING/REPLACING REAR MIDDLE RIGHT ULTRASONIC SENSOR , 66 20 536 REMOVING AND INSTALLING/REPLACING REAR MIDDLE LEFT ULTRASONIC SENSOR , 66 20 535 REMOVING AND INSTALLING/REPLACING REAR RIGHT ULTRASONIC SENSOR or 66 20 534 REMOVING AND INSTALLING/REPLACING REAR LEFT ULTRASONIC SENSOR .
Modify towing eye cover

Fig 6: Identifying Catches, Guides And Sheet Nuts
Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.