51 45 031 Replacing instrument panel trim

When working on trim panel components, make sure that visible surfaces are not scratched or damaged (e.g. by sharp-edged tools).

Necessary preliminary tasks: 

• Remove INSTRUMENT PANEL TRIM 
• If necessary, remove FRESH AIR VENT ON LEFT AND RIGHT
• REMOVE  decorative strip on dashboard on right

Release screws (1).

Tightening torque 72 12 1AZ .

Installation note: 

Replace screws (1).

Remove airbag module (2) from dashboard.

Release screws (3) from the right-hand fresh-air duct (4).

Detach right fresh-air duct (4).

Release screws (1) from fresh-air duct (2).

Detach fresh-air duct (2).

Slightly bend side of frame for gap cover (1) inwards and first feed out top and bend bottom of gap cover (1) and place to one side.

With radio basic version: 

Radio basic version does not fit in function carrier on new instrument panel.

Undo screws (3) from units carrier (2).

Feed out function carrier (2) and install in new instrument panel.

With radio basic version: 

If an instrument panel built before 04/2014 is replaced by one built after 04/2014, the replacement must be reworked in the marked area (for dimensions see next operation).

Distinguishing feature:

1. version before 04/2014, mounting of function carrier by clamp (1)
2. version after 04/2014, mounting of function carrier by screw (2)
   Fig 4: Locating Instrument Panel Clamp

   Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Mark and cut out instrument panel as per dimensions a to d.

Left side		Right side
a1	10 mm	a2	7 mm
b1	13 mm	b2	10 mm
c1	22 mm	c2	22 mm
d1	11 mm	d2	11 mm

Installation note: 

In order for the ventilation grille to be correctly fitted, the gap dimension (x and y) between the function carrier and the dashboard trim panel must be correctly adjusted.

Press the function carrier in direction of arrow and tighten the screws (1 to 4) (note the tightening sequence).

Check gap dimension (x and y), re-align function carrier if necessary.

(x) = 2 mm

(y) = 0 ⁺¹ mm

Remove all C-clip nuts (4) from dashboard (1).

Remove right defrost outlet (2) from dashboard before left defrost outlet (2).

Proceed as follows:

• Detach all retaining hooks (3) at front.
• Starting from the outside and working inwards, lever out the front of the defrost outlet (2) and detach.
  Fig 7: Detaching Instrument Panel Trim Retaining Hooks

  Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Installation note: 

All latch mechanisms or retaining elements (2) on the defrost outlet (1) must neither be damaged nor missing.

Lever out rear of side defrost outlet (1) as shown and pull out at an upward angle.

Repeat process for right side defrost outlet (1).

Installation note: 

Latch mechanisms (2) on defrost outlet (1) must not be damaged or missing.