51 41 001 Replacing front left or right door trim panel (up to 03/2007)

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2008 BMW 535xi. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Necessary preliminary tasks:

Remove FRONT DOOR TRIM PANEL
Remove TOGGLE SWITCH
Remove AIRBAG MODULE IN FRONT DOOR
Remove INSIDE DOOR HANDLE
Remove INSIDE DOOR OPENER
Remove SPEAKER
Replace ARMREST
Replace DOOR POCKET

Version with interior light package:

Remove TRIM FOR DOOR HANDLE/DOOR COMPARTMENT LIGHT

Version with interior light package:

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

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

Fig 1: Identifying Door Trim Panel Cover And Moulding

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.