51 41 000 Removing and installing front left or right door trim panel

WARNING: This page does not describe the selected car, but rather 16 other vehicles, including the 2006 BMW 325Ci, 2005 BMW 325xi, 2005 BMW 325i, 2005 BMW 325Ci, and 2004 BMW 325xi. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Special Tools Required:

NOTE: For special tools, refer to BODY EQUIPMENT - SPECIAL TOOLS - 3-SERIES (M54/E46) .

00 9 317

WARNING: Model with side airbag: Follow safety instructions for working on cars with airbag systems, refer to 51 00... 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 outside mirror.

Press on point (A) and tilt out trim (1). Release screw underneath.

Fig 1: Levering Out Trim

G00565907

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Lever out air bag emblem (1) with special tool 00 9 317. Release screw underneath.

Tightening torque refer to 51 41 1AZ in BODY EQUIPMENT - TIGHTENING TORQUES - 325I, CI & XI - E46 .

Release screws (2).

Tightening torque refer to 51 41 2AZ in BODY EQUIPMENT - TIGHTENING TORQUES - 325I, CI & XI - E46 .

Fig 2: Airbag Emblem And Release Screws

G00565908

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

IMPORTANT: Replace damaged screws and nuts.

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

Fig 3: Door Trim Panel Clips

G00565909

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

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

Feed out door trim (1) from unlocking knob (2).

Fig 4: Door Trim And Unlocking Knob

G00565910

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Unhook Bowden cable for release lever:

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

Installation: For fitting, press release lever (1) fully into door trim panel.

Fig 5: Release Lever, Lock And Bowden Cable

G00565911

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Version with loudspeaker:

If necessary, disconnect plug connections (1) and (2). Feed cable (3) out of aperture (4).

Installation: Secure cable in opening (5) with adhesive tape.

Fig 6: Plug Connections, Cable, Aperture And Opening

G00565912

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Installation:

Clips (1) are longer than the other clips.

Clips (1) are grey, remaining clips are white.

Fit all clips with sealing ring. If necessary, replace faulty clips.

Fig 7: Door Trim Panel Clips

G00565913

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Installation:

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

Fig 8: Styrofoam Block

G00565914

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

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