51 41 060 Removing and installing or replacing armrest on door trim panel, front left or right

Necessary preliminary work:

Remove FRONT DOOR HANDLE
Remove SWITCH COVER

NOTE: Armrest is welded to door trim panel only on initial installation. The armrest is screw-connected on second installation. If applicable, release screws instead of welding spots.

IMPORTANT: Risk of damage!
To avoid damaging the contact surface, only drill down to door trim panel area (2)

Drill out all welding spots in marked area (1) on door trim panel (2) with 8 mm dia. welding spot drill bit.

Remove welding remains on door trim panel (2) with scalpel (for heavy duty use).

Fig 1: Door Trim Panel Welding Spots Marked Area

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Replacement:

Saw off all welding pins (1) on arm support (2) to dimension (A).

A = 2.0 ± 0.5 mm

Fig 2: Arm Support And Welding Pins

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Installation note:

Arm support:

position against door trim panel (1)
secure at front and rear with repair screw (2)
align until bore holes (3) are centered
tighten beginning in the middle

Fig 3: Door Trim Panel And Screw
Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Tightening torque: 51 41 4 AZ .

NOTE: If bore holes (3) were not drilled through, increase tightening torque accordingly to ensure that arm rest is firmly seated.