51 16 165 Removing and installing complete center console

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2013 BMW 550i GT, 2012 BMW 550i GT, 2011 BMW 550i GT, and 2010 BMW 550i GT. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

When working on trim panel components, make sure that the sensitive surfaces are not scratched or damaged.

Necessary preliminary tasks

Move front seat all the way back
Remove SIDE TRIM PANEL ON CENTRE CONSOLE on left and right.
Remove GEAR SELECTOR SWITCH .
Remove FRONT STORAGE COMPARTMENT .
Remove RADIO AND A/C CONTROL PANEL .

IMPORTANT: Read and comply with notes on HANDLING WIRING HARNESSES and cables.

Release rear mat insert (1) from storage compartment at rear in direction of arrow.

Fig 1: Releasing Rear Mat Insert From Storage Compartment

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

NOTE: For purposes of clarity, illustration shows rear mat insert completely removed.

Release screws (1).

Tightening torque 51 16 22AZ .

Fig 2: Identifying Rear Mat Insert Screws

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Pull out wiring harness (1) from holder and disengage USB / AUX IN socket (2) inward in direction of arrow.

Disconnect plug connection (3).

Fig 3: Disconnecting Plug Connection

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Release screws (1) on center console support (near gear selector switch).

Tightening torque 51 16 22AZ .

Fig 4: Identifying Screws On Centre Console Support (Near Gear Selector Switch)

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Release screws (1) rear sides of center console support on left and right.

Tightening torque 51 16 22AZ .

Fig 5: Identifying Screws Of Centre Console Support

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Release screws on front sides of center console support (1) on left and right.

Tightening torque 51 16 22AZ .

Fig 6: Identifying Centre Console Support

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Release screws (1) on front of center console support on left and right.

Tightening torque 51 16 22AZ .

If necessary, disconnect plug connection from aerial for Comfort Access (2).

Lift center console slightly and, if necessary, disconnect remaining plug connections.

Fig 7: Identifying Centre Console Support Screws And Aerial For Comfort Access

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Pull out wiring harnesses from center console.

Carefully lift center console out towards rear at an angle.