51 16 206 Removing and installing/replacing center armrest

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2016 BMW Z4, 2015 BMW Z4, and 2014 BMW Z4. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Necessary preliminary tasks:

Remove CENTER CONSOLE .

If telephone optional equipment installed:

Remove EJECT BOX

Raise mat insert (1) with suitable tool and remove.

Fig 1: Raising Mat Insert With Suitable Tool

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Release screws (1) and remove storage compartment (2).

Fig 2: Identifying Storage Compartment With Screws

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If telephone optional equipment installed:

Raise both mat inserts (1) with suitable tool and remove.

Installation:

Mat inserts (1) are installation-encoded (2). Note different diameters when installing.

Fig 3: Identifying Installation-Encoded Mat Inserts

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Release screws (1).

Remove storage compartment (2) from center console (3).

Fig 4: Identifying Storage Compartment, Center Console With Screws

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Release screws (1) from underside of center console.

Fig 5: Identifying Center Console Screws

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Raise cover (1) slightly and remove.

Fig 6: Removing Cover

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NOTE: Center armrest shown closed for purposes of clarity.

WARNING: Spring (1) is under pre-tension.

Open center armrest fully to minimize spring pre-tension.

Fig 7: Detaching Spring Legs Of Left And Right Side

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Unhook spring legs on left and right in direction of arrow (2) from housing body, then slide spring coil in each case in direction of arrow (3) from hinge axes. Use a suitable tool for this.

Pull spring with spring retainer (2) towards rear out of center armrest (1). If necessary, fold center armrest (1) shut for this purpose.

Installation:

Spring retainer (2) must lock correctly in recess in center armrest (1).

The spring legs must be engaged up to the stop in the center console housing.

Fig 8: Pulling Spring With Spring Retainer

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Pull hinge axes (2) in direction of arrow in inward direction out of bearing supports and remove center armrest (1).

Installation:

Toothing of hinge axes points inwards.

Fig 9: Pulling Center Armrest Hinge Axes

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