Remove rear side trim panel

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2025 BMW M4, 2024 BMW M4, 2023 BMW M4, 2022 BMW M4, and 2021 BMW M4. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

NOTE: Description is for left component only. Procedure on the right side is identical.

Preliminary work

Refer to REMOVING THE REAR OUTER WINDOW RECESS FINISHER STRIP .
Refer to REMOVING THE INNER DOOR SILL COVER STRIP .
Refer to REMOVING REAR SEAT BENCH .
Refer to REMOVING LEFT AND RIGHT BACKREST SIDE SECTION .
Refer to REMOVING REAR SEAT BACKREST .
Refer to REMOVING THE HEAD RESTRAINT ON REAR LEFT AND RIGHT .
Refer to REMOVING THE REAR LEFT AND RIGHT HEAD RESTRAINT GUIDES .
Refer to REMOVING THE TRIM PANEL AT THE TOP OF THE ROLLOVER PROTECTION SYSTEM .

Removing the front strap fitting

Unclip cover cap (1).
Loosen screw (2).

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Pull out sleeve (1) from cover (2) of strap fitting (3).
Unclip cover (2) of strap fitting (3) from strap fitting (3).

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Removing seat-belt assistant hand

NOTE: To provide a better overview: Schematic diagram with partially hidden components.
Feed out the seat-belt assistant hand (1) in direction of arrow from the seat belt extender (2) carefully.
Feed out upper seat belt (3) from the seat-belt assistant hand (1).

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Remove the cover (1).

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Loosen screw (1).

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Loosen screw (1).

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Release screws (1) and (2).

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Unclip the side trim panel (1) with a suitable tool inwards at the clamps (2).
Unclip the side trim panel (1) with a suitable tool at the clips (3).
Carefully feed out the side trim panel (1) at the edge protection.

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Unlock plug connections (1) and disconnect,
Remove the side trim panel.

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