51 45 031 Replacing instrument panel trim

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.

Remove trim for instrument panel, refer to 51 45 030 REMOVING AND INSTALLING INSTRUMENT PANEL TRIM .

Remove speakers (in instrument panel) on left and right, refer to 65 13 050 REMOVING AND INSTALLING/REPLACING SPEAKER (IN INSTRUMENT PANEL, LEFT OR RIGHT) .

Remove decorative strip next to light switch and radio, refer to 51 16 221 REPLACING A CLIPPED FINISHER (DECORATIVE STRIP ON PANEL FOR INSTRUMENT PANEL, FRONT OR REAR DOOR) .

Remove right fresh air nozzle, refer to 64 22 136 REMOVING AND INSTALLING/REPLACING RIGHT FRESH-AIR GRILL .

Release screws (1) and remove frame (2) for passenger airbag.

Fig 1: Removing Frame For Passenger Airbag

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Slacken screws (1) and remove cover (2) for steering column.

Fig 2: Removing Cover For Steering Column

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Release screws (1) from below.

Release screws (2) from above and remove frame (3) for heating controls.

Fig 3: Removing Heating Controls Frame

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Installation:

If necessary, replace faulty metal nuts (1) on frame (2) for heating controls.

Fig 4: Replace Faulty Metal Nuts On Heating Controls Frame

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Detach anti-drumming coating (1) until air ducts can be removed at side.

Fig 5: Removing Anti-Drumming Coating To Air Duct

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Installation:

Foam strip (2) must be correctly fitted.

Release left/right screws (1).

Detach air duct (2) on left/right from center air duct (3).

Fig 6: Removing Left/Right Ducts From Center Air Duct

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Installation:

Re-attach anti-drumming coating (4) to air duct (2).

Remove metal nuts (1).

Fig 7: Removing Metal Nuts

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Installation:

Styrofoam block (2) must be correctly fitted.

Remove metal nuts (1) for left/right speakers.

Remove fasteners (3) for decorative strips.

Unclip fresh-air grill (4) on left/right.

Fig 8: Removing Metal Nuts For Left/Right Speakers, Decorative Strips & Fresh-Air Grill

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.