51 41 000 Removing and installing left or right front door trim panel

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2003 BMW X5 and 2002 BMW X5. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Special Tools Required:

00 9 317

WARNING: Version with side airbag:
Follow safety instructions for working on cars with airbag systems, refer to 51 00 ... SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS FOR WORKING ON CARS WITH AIRBAG SYSTEMS .

CAUTION: Do not use any sharp-edged tools to remove the panel (risk of damage to airbag).

Remove clipped-in trim (decorative strip) on door trim panel, refer to 51 16 221 REPLACING A CLIPPED FINISHER (DECORATIVE STRIP ON PANEL FOR INSTRUMENT PANEL, FRONT OR REAR DOOR) .

Remove toggle switch for door window operation, refer to 61 31 115 REPLACING ROCKER SWITCH FOR SIDE WINDOW OPERATION .

Remove footwell light on bottom of door, refer to 63 31 020 REMOVING AND INSTALLING/REPLACING FOOTWELL LIGHT .

Release screws (1).

Fig 1: Releasing Door Panel Screws

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Lever out airbag label (2) and release screw underneath.

Unclip clips (1) of door trim panel with special tool 009317 (trim panel wedge).

Fig 2: Unclipping Door Trim Panel Clips

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Carefully unclip door trim panel (1) at top with special tool 00 9 317 (trim panel wedge).

Fig 3: Unclipping Door Trim Panel At Top

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Feed door trim panel (1) out of unlocking button (3).

Installation:

Bend open retainers on inner door plate for accommodating central clip (2) for installation.

Version With Lighting For Inside Door Handle:

If necessary, disconnect plug connection (1) on door opener (2).

Fig 4: Disconnecting Plug Connection On Door Opener

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Unhook Bowden cable for release lever:

Tighten release lever (1).
Lever out lock (2).
Detach Bowden cable towards inside/rear.

Fig 5: Unhooking Bowden Cable For Release Lever

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Installation:

Press unlocking lever (1) for installation fully on door trim panel.

Installation:

Clips (1) are longer than the other clips.

Clips (1) are gray, the other clips are white.

Fit all clips with sealing ring.

If necessary, replace faulty clips.

Fig 6: Replace Faulty Or Broken Door Panel Clips

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Installation:

After assembling the door trim panel proceed as follows:

Open door window.
Lock with vehicle key.
Check whether linkage of safety button can move freely.