Necessary preliminary tasks

WARNING: This page does not describe the selected car, but rather 8 other vehicles, including the 2012 BMW 328xi, 2012 BMW 328i, 2011 BMW 328xi, 2011 BMW 328i, and 2010 BMW 328xi. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Clamp off BATTERY NEGATIVE LEAD
Remove FOOTWELL SIDE TRIM PANEL ON A-PILLAR, LEFT

Disconnect plug connection (1).

Release nuts (2) and remove footwell module (3).

Fig 1: Identifying Footwell Module And Nuts

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Replacement:

Carry out vehicle programming/encoding.