51 45 030 Removing and installing instrument panel trim

WARNING: This page does not describe the selected car, but rather 50 other vehicles, including the 2016 BMW M5, 2016 BMW ActiveHybrid 5, 2016 BMW 550i xDrive, 2016 BMW 550i, and 2016 BMW 535i xDrive. 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:

Disconnect NEGATIVE TERMINAL
Remove DECORATIVE STRIP ON INSTRUMENT PANEL ON LEFT
Remove TRIMS FOR ROOF PILLAR AT FRONT
Remove STEERING COLUMN SWITCH CLUSTER
Remove STEERING COLUMN SHROUD LOWER SECTION
Remove INSTRUMENT CLUSTER
Additionally, depending on equipment specifications:
- Remove TRIM FOR HEAD-UP DISPLAY
Remove CENTRAL INFORMATION DISPLAY (CID)
Remove RADIO AND CONTROL PANEL
Additionally, depending on equipment specifications:
- Remove CAR INFORMATION COMPUTER (CIC)
Remove LEFT FRESH-AIR GRILLE
Remove CONTROL ELEMENT FOR DRIVER ASSIST SYSTEM
Remove FOLD-DOWN COMPARTMENT ON DRIVER'S SIDE
Remove trim panel for pedal assembly . See 51 45 184 REMOVING AND INSTALLING (REPLACING) TRIM PANEL FOR PEDAL MECHANISM (ECE ONLY) or 51 45 184 REMOVING AND INSTALLING (REPLACING) TRIM PANEL FOR PEDAL MECHANISM (US ONLY)
Remove SWITCH FOR PASSENGER AIRBAG DEACTIVATION
Remove RIGHT FRESH-AIR GRILLE
Remove RIGHT GLOVE BOX WITH HOUSING
Remove COMPLETE CENTER CONSOLE

NOTE: Shown removed here for purposes of clarity. Wiring harness is therefore not included in graphic.

Disconnect plug connection (1) from front passenger airbag unit.

(Observe notes regarding AIRBAG PLUG CONNECTIONS ).

Fig 1: Identifying Front Passenger Airbag Unit Plug Connection

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Remove left and right foam-padded pieces (1) from instrument panel (2).

Fig 2: Removing Foam-Padded Pieces From Instrument Panel

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Release screw (1) on top left and right from dashboard (2).

Tightening torque 51 45 5AZ .

Installation note:

As repair solution "Dashboard squeaks and rattles", new oval-head dashboard screws (1) are available with a second washer under part number 07 14 9 240 740. If the new version has not yet been installed, retrofit the oval-head dashboard screw (1).

Fig 3: Identifying Dashboard Screws

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Release screws (2) from instrument panel trim (1).

Tightening torque 51 45 5AZ .

Fig 4: Identifying Instrument Panel Trim Screws

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

NOTE: Shown removed here for purposes of clarity.

Release screws (2) from instrument panel trim (1).

Tightening torque 51 45 5AZ .

Only carry out the following with help:

Pull instrument panel trim (1) back slightly.
If necessary, disconnect plug connection from mid-range speaker.
Disconnect cable connector at left between instrument panel trim (1) and wiring harness.

Fig 5: Identifying Instrument Panel Trim Screws
Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.
Remove instrument panel trim (1).

NOTE: Graphic is only an example.

Installation note:

Make sure guides (1) on instrument panel trim (2) are correctly seated in respective mountings.
Make sure gaskets are correctly seated on air ducts.
Make sure electrical leads are correctly laid.

Fig 6: Identifying Instrument Panel Trim Guides
Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.
Correctly insert foam-padded part of instrument panel trim (2) in center and install.
If necessary, replace RESILIENT SEALING TAPE for VIN number inspection window.