51 41 000 Removing And Installing Front Left Or Right Door Trim Panel (Coupe, Convertible)

WARNING: This page does not describe the selected car, but rather 6 other vehicles, including the 2006 BMW M3, 2005 BMW M3, 2004 BMW M3, 2003 BMW M3, and 2002 BMW M3. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

NOTE:

For Special Tool identification, see MAINTENANCE AND GENERAL INFORMATION - SPECIAL TOOLS .

Special Tools Required:

00 9 317

WARNING: Version with side airbag: Follow safety instructions for working on cars with airbag systems, refer to SERVICE POSITION OF ENGINE HOOD .

CAUTION: Do not use any sharp-edged tools to remove the panel - risk of damage to airbag.

Driver's side only:

Remove switch for exterior rearview mirror. 61 31 255 REPLACING SWITCH FOR DOOR MIRROR .

Press down on point (A) and tilt finisher (1) out.

Release underlying screw.

Fig 1: Removing Door Panel Finisher

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Lever out airbag emblem (1) with special tool 00 9 317 (trim panel wedge).

Release underlying screw.

Fig 2: Locating Arm Rest Screws

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Installation:

Tightening torque, refer to 51 41 1AZ in BODY EQUIPMENT - TIGHTENING TORQUES - 3-SERIES .

Unfasten screws (2).

Installation:

Tightening torque, refer to 51 41 2AZ in BODY EQUIPMENT - TIGHTENING TORQUES - 3-SERIES .

CAUTION: Replace damaged screws and nuts.

Unclip clips (1) of door trim panel with special tool 00 9 317 (trim panel wedge).

Fig 3: Locating Clips Of Door Trim Panel

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Carefully unclip door trim panel (1) at top with special tool 00 9 317 (trim panel wedge).

Feed door trim panel (1) out of unlocking knob (2).

Fig 4: Identifying Unlocking Knob In Door

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Unhook Bowden cable for release lever:

Tighten release lever (1).
Lever out lock (2).
Remove Bowden cable (3) towards rear/top.

Fig 5: Removing Bowden Cable
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Installation:

Press unlocking lever (1) for installation fully on door trim panel.

Version with loudspeaker:

If necessary, disconnect plug connections (1) and (2).

Feed cable (3) out of aperture (4).

Fig 6: Disconnecting Plug Connections

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Installation:

Secure cable in opening (5) with adhesive tape.

Fig 7: View Of Clip With Sealing Ring

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Installation:

Clips (1) are longer than the other clips.

Clips (1) are gray, the other clips are white.

Fit all clips with sealing ring.

If necessary, replace faulty clips.

Installation:

The styrofoam block (1) must not be loose, secure with double-sided adhesive tape if necessary.

Fig 8: Identifying Styrofoam Block

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Installation:

After assembling the door trim panel proceed as follows:

Open door window.
Lock with vehicle key.
Check whether linkage of safety button can move freely.
If necessary, align linkages.