51 45 025 Removing and installing instrument panel trim

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 work

Remove TRIM PANELS FOR ROOF PILLAR AT FRONT
Remove INSTRUMENT PANEL TRIM AT BOTTOM LEFT
Remove RIGHT GLOVEBOX WITH HOUSING
Remove CENTRE FRESH-AIR GRILLE
Remove speaker. See 65 13 060 REMOVING AND INSTALLING/REPLACING SPEAKER (MIDRANGE SPEAKER, IN INSTRUMENT PANEL) .
Remove CENTRAL INFORMATION DISPLAY (CID)
Remove INSTRUMENT CLUSTER

NOTE: Observe the following instructions to facilitate removal of the instrument panel trim:

Move front seats back completely and lower
Move steering column into "lower" and "extended" position

Release screws (1) on right panel (2).

Fig 1: Removing Screws On Right Panel

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Installation note:

Insert locator (1) of panel (2) correctly in lug of instrument panel carrier.

Fig 2: Identifying Locator Of Panel

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Unclip wiring harness (1) to steering column on instrument panel carrier (2).

Fig 3: Identifying Instrument Panel Carrier With Wiring Harness

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Disconnect plug connection (1) from temperature sensor (2).

Fig 4: Identifying Temperature Sensor With Plug Connection

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Secure steering column against falling out.

Release screws (1).

Tightening torque 32 31 3AZ .

Installation note:

Check steering column sleeve.

Fig 5: Identifying Steering Column Screws

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Fig 6: Identifying Instrument Panel With Screws And Nuts

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Unfasten screws (1) and nuts (3).

Remove trim for instrument panel (2)

NOTE: Graphic shows already removed instrument panel trim for better clarity.

If the instrument panel trim jams during removal, loosen the left and right studs (1).

Fig 7: Identifying Studs

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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 8: Identifying Guides On Instrument Panel Trim

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.