51 42 000 Removing and installing rear 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: Version with side airbag: Follow safety instructions for working on cars with airbag systems, refer to 51 00... SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS FOR WORKING ON CARS WITH AIRBAG SYSTEMS

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

Remove clipped-in trim (decorative strip) on door trim panel.

Version without power windows:

Remove rear window crank.

Version without power windows and without removal opening:

NOTE: Do not damage lining (2) when removing trim (1).

Fig 1: Removing Trim

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Using a small screwdriver, carefully lever out trim (1) at points (2).

Version without power windows and with removal opening (1)

NOTE: When removing trim (2), do not damage lining (3) with screwdriver.

Carefully insert a regular screwdriver approx. 1mm into removal opening (1) of trim (2).
Press trim (2) forwards and lift out towards top.

Fig 2: Removing Trim
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Version with power windows:

If necessary, lever out rocker switch (1) at rocker (2), disconnect plug connection and remove rocker switch (1).

Fig 3: Removing Rocker Switch

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Release screws (1).

Installation:

Screw (1) is longer than the others.

Tightening torque, refer to 51 22 6AZ in BODY EQUIPMENT - TIGHTENING TORQUES - 325I, CI & XI - E46 .

Lever out trims (3), release screws underneath and screws (2).

Fig 4: Removing Trims Screws

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Installation:

Tightening torque, refer to 51 42 1AZ in BODY EQUIPMENT - TIGHTENING TORQUES - 325I, CI & XI - E46 .

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

Fig 5: Removing Door Trim Panel Clips

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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 6: Removing Door Trim Panel

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Unhook Bowden cable for release lever:

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

Fig 7: Removing Bowden Cable
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Installation:

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

Version with power windows:

If necessary, feed out lead (1) from door trim panel (2).

Version with additional speaker:

If necessary, disconnect plug connection (3) on additional speaker (4).

Fig 8: Disconnecting Plug Connection (3) On Additional Speaker (4)

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Remove door trim panel (2).

Installation:

Clips (1) and (2) are longer than the other clips.

Clips (1) and (2) are gray, the other clips are white.

Fit all clips with sealing ring.

Fig 9: Installing Clips With Sealing Ring

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If necessary, replace faulty clips.

CAUTION: The sound insulation may be damaged at the screw-down points for the armrest. If necessary, tape off sound insulation in this area with fabric adhesive tape.

Installation:

After assembling the door trim panel proceed as follows:

Open door window
Lock with vehicle key
Check for ease-of-movement on retaining button linkage
If necessary, align linkages