51 16 206 Removing and installing/replacing center armrest

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2013 BMW Z4, 2012 BMW Z4, 2011 BMW Z4, 2010 BMW Z4, and 2009 BMW Z4. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Necessary preliminary tasks

Remove CENTRE CONSOLE .

If telephone optional equipment installed:

Remove EJECT BOX

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

Fig 1: Raising Mat Insert

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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, Centre Console With Screws

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Release screws (1) from underside of center console.

Fig 5: Identifying Centre Console Screws

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Raise cover (1) slightly and remove.

Fig 6: Raising Cover

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NOTE: Centre armrest shown closed for purposes of clarity.

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

Fig 7: Detaching Spring Legs Of Left And Right Side

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Open center armrest fully to minimize spring pre-tension.

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 Hinge Axes

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