51 43 060 Removing and installing/replacing armrest on rear left or right side trim panel

Necessary preliminary tasks:

Drill out all welding spots in marked area (1) on side trim panel (2) using Ø 8 mm weld spot drill bit.

IMPORTANT: Risk of damage!
Only drill down to side trim panel base area (2) so as not to damage the contact surface.

Fig 1: Welding Spots Marked Area On Side Trim Panel

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Remove welding residues on side trim panel (2) and armrest with a (heavy-duty) scalpel if these are to be reused.

Saw off all welding pins (1) in marked area (2) of armrest (3) to dimension (A).

A = 2 ± 0.5 mm

Fig 2: Welding Residues On Side Trim Panel And Armrest

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Installation note:

Armrest:

position against side 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: Side Trim Panel And Screw
Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Tightening torque: 51 43 5 AZ .

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