Removing Roof Outer Skin

WARNING: This page does not describe the selected car, but rather 18 other vehicles, including the 2015 BMW Alpina B7L xDrive, 2015 BMW Alpina B7 xDrive, 2015 BMW 750i xDrive, 2015 BMW 750Li xDrive, and 2015 BMW 740Li xDrive. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

View of passenger compartment above driver's seat.

Operation is described on the left side. Right side identical.

Release screw (1).

Release rivets (2) and remove holder (3).

Fig 1: Identifying Rivets, Holder And Screw

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Release rivets (1) and remove earth strap (2).

NOTE: Do not damage earth strap.

Replace if necessary, part number 61 12 7 213 377

Also release earth straps on left and right above rear seat.

IMPORTANT: Only the special rivets may be used to fit the earth straps!

Fig 2: Identifying Earth Strap And Rivets

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Fig 3: Identifying Bonded Connection

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Heat bonded connection (5) with hot-air blower until adhesive is loosened and release.

In so doing, proceed in sections (1 to 4), starting at rear left.

IMPORTANT: Extract vapors and gases.

Primed surface must not be damaged.

Do not use any metallic tools.

Carefully drive in plastic or wooden wedge at heated section. The wedge creates tension between roof outer skin and body.

IMPORTANT: Do not exert force to drive in wedge. If the wedge cannot be driven in, continue heating roof outer skin on adhesive flange over a large area (max. 180 °C).
Carry out operation with a 2nd person helping.

Heat next section until roof outer skin has detached from body. Reapply plastic wedge.

Repeat procedure until roof outer skin is completely detached.

Fig 4: Removing Roof Outer Skin

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Take off roof outer skin.