51 43 259 Removing and installing/replacing trim panel for rear left or right roof pillar (D-pillar)

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.

NOTE: For cars with build date from 03/2006 and with automatic rear lid actuation (option SA316), removal is described in:

Removing and installing/replacing TRIM PANEL FOR REAR ROOF PILLAR (D-pillar with option SA316 from 03/2006), left or right

Necessary preliminary tasks:

Remove FLAP IN LUGGAGE COMPARTMENT PANEL
Remove LUGGAGE COMPARTMENT LIGHT

Detach mucket (1) in area of trim panel (4).

Unfasten screws (2 and 3).

Pull trim panel (4) at top inwards slightly and disconnect electrical plug connection (5) at auto-remote opener.

Unclip trim panel (4) at clip (6) in direction of arrow.

Remove trim (4) upwards.

Fig 1: Removing Trim Panel For Roof Pillar

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Installation:

If necessary, lever out clip (1) remaining in bore.

If necessary, replace faulty clip (1).

Feed in trim panel (2) preassembled with clip (1) first at bottom, then position on associated bore and clip into place.

Fig 2: Identifying Clip And Trim Panel

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Replacement:

If necessary, release screws (1) on auto-remote opener (2).

Remove auto-remote opener (2) from trim panel (3).

Fig 3: Identifying Auto-Remote Opener And Trim Panel

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.