51 45 075 Removing and installing/replacing carrier for instrument panel

WARNING: This page does not describe the selected car, but rather 6 other vehicles, including the 2016 BMW 328i xDrive, 2016 BMW 328d xDrive, 2015 BMW 328i xDrive, 2015 BMW 328d xDrive, and 2014 BMW 328i xDrive. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Necessary preliminary work:

Remove INSTRUMENT PANEL TRIM
Detach STEERING COLUMN from dashboard carrier
Detach plug connections on airbag control unit. See 65 77 016 REMOVING AND INSTALLING/REPLACING AIRBAG CONTROL UNIT .
Unclip POWER DISTRIBUTION BOX AT FRONT

Depending on version:

Unfasten plug connection (1) and disconnect.

Feed out wiring harness (2) towards passenger compartment.

Fig 1: Passenger Compartment Wiring Harness And Plug Connection

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Undo bolts (1) on bulkhead.

Tightening torque: 51 45 4AZ .

Fig 2: Bulkhead Bolts

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Unlock and detach plug connections (1 and 2).

Feed out cable (3).

Fig 3: Instrument Panel Carrier Cable And Plug Connection

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Fig 4: A-Pillar Nuts, Support And Carrier

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Release nuts (1) and remove holder (2).

Tightening torque: 51 45 3AZ .

Unscrew nut (3).

Tightening torque: 51 45 5AZ .

Installation note:

Instead of nuts (3) threaded bolts can come loose from heating and air-conditioning unit. Before installing the carrier, screw threaded bolts into the heating and air-conditioning unit.

Release nuts (4) on A-pillar.

Tightening torque: 51 45 2AZ .

Release screws (5) by approx. 2 turns.

Tightening torque: 51 45 1AZ .

Carefully pull support (6) to the rear and if necessary unclip further cable clips.

Remove carrier (6).

Installation note:

Replace compensating element (1) every time after dismantling the support.

Fully screw in installation plate (2). When applying tightening force to the screw, installation plate (2) is automatically adjusted.

Make sure foam ring (3) is fitted correctly.

Fig 5: Instrument Panel Carrier Installation Plate And Foam Ring

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Replacement:

Remount airbag control unit (1).

Remount wiring harness (2).

If necessary, remount non-existing retaining bracket on new part.

US version:

Remove AIRBAG MODULE FOR DRIVER'S KNEE PROTECTION

Fig 6: Airbag Control Unit Wire Harness

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