51 41 060 Removing and installing/replacing armrest on 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 INSIDE DOOR HANDLE

Release nuts (1 and 2).

Remove retaining plate from door trim panel (4).

Installation:

Retaining plate must be positioned over pin (3).

Fig 1: Identifying Door Trim Panel, Pin And Nuts

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

IMPORTANT: Only drill down to door trim panel area (2) so as not to damage the contact surface.
Drill out welding spots (1) on door trim panel (2) with 8 mm dia. welding spot drill bit.

Release nut (3) and remove armrest.

NOTE: Armrest is welded to door trim panel only on initial installation.
If necessary, release nuts (3) instead of welding spots (1).

Fig 2: Identifying Door Trim Panel, Welding Spots And Nut

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Installation:

Attach armrest (1) to door trim panel and screw down with nuts (2).

Fig 3: Identifying Armrest And Nuts

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.