51 43 002 Removing and installing rear left or right side trim panel

WARNING: This page does not describe the selected car, but rather 21 other vehicles, including the 2013 BMW 328xi, 2013 BMW 328i, 2012 BMW 328xi, 2012 BMW 328i, and 2011 BMW 328xi. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Special Tools Required:

00 9 317

IMPORTANT: Risk of damage to fibre optic cable in side trim panel.

Light strip must be replaced if fibre optic cable is damaged.

Necessary preliminary tasks:

Remove Decorative Strip From Side Trim Panel
Remove Armrest Side Section
Remove Rear Seat

Detach mucket (1) in area of side trim panel.

Unfasten screws (2).

For tightening torque refer to 51 43 3AZ in 51 43 SIDE TRIM PANEL WITH ARMRESTS .

Fig 1: Mucket And Screws

G04752748

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Carefully detach side trim panel (1) with special tool 00 9 317 from retainers (2) and clips (3).

Pull side trim panel (1) inwards only to such an extent that plug connections can be disconnected.

NOTE: Fibre optic cable may break off if side trim panel (1) is pulled too far inwards.

Fig 2: Side Trim Panel, Retainers And Clips

G04752749

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

NOTE: View from outside through door window.

Carefully detach LED holder (1).

Disconnect plug connections from control unit and speaker and remove side trim panel.

Fig 3: LED Holder And Removal Direction

G04752750

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Installation:

Lug (1) on side trim panel must be correctly inserted into guide (2) of C-pillar panel.

Fig 4: Lug And C-Pillar Panel Guide

G04752751

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Installation:

If necessary, replace faulty nuts (1) and/or retainers (2).

Fig 5: Nuts And Retainers

G04752752

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Installation:

Fit all clips (1) with sealing ring.

If necessary, replace faulty clips (1).

Fig 6: Clips

G04752753

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.