51 42 001 Replacing rear left or right door trim panel (up to 03/2007)

WARNING: This page does not describe the selected car, but rather 6 other vehicles, including the 2010 BMW 535xi, 2010 BMW 535i, 2009 BMW 535xi, 2009 BMW 535i, and 2008 BMW 535xi. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Necessary preliminary tasks:

Remove REAR DOOR TRIM PANEL
Remove ROCKER SWITCH FOR SIDE WINDOW OPERATION
Remove REAR SPEAKER
Remove AIRBAG MODULE FROM REAR DOOR
Remove ROLLER SUN BLIND FROM SIDE WINDOW IN REAR DOOR
Remove INSIDE DOOR OPENER
Remove INSIDE DOOR HANDLE
Replace ARMREST
Replace DOOR POCKET

Version with interior light package:

Remove TRIM FOR DOOR HANDLE/DOOR COMPARTMENT LIGHT

Version with rear smokers' package:

If necessary, release screws (1) on rear door trim panel (2).

Fig 1: Identifying Screws And Rear Door Trim Panel

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

If necessary, feed out trim with ashtray (1) in direction of arrow from rear door trim panel (2).

Fig 2: Identifying Ashtray And Rear Door Trim Panel

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Version with interior light package:

Cut out opening (1) at molding (2) with a scalpel.

IMPORTANT: Ensure a clean cut so that the door trim panel cover (3) is not damaged.

Fig 3: Identifying Door Trim Panel Cover And Molding

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.