51 16 210 Removing and installing/replacing trim for preselector lever (up to 03/2007)

WARNING: This page does not describe the selected car, but rather 19 other vehicles, including the 2010 BMW M5, 2009 BMW M5, 2008 BMW M5, 2007 BMW M5, and 2007 BMW 550i. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Necessary preliminary tasks:

Apply parking brake
Version with automatic transmission: Move selector lever into N position
Version with manual transmission: Engage neutral

NOTE:

Removing the trim for the preselector lever or gearshift lever is virtually identical. The illustrations show the removal of the trim for the preselector lever in versions with automatic transmissions.

NOTE:

To be able to remove the preselector lever trim, it is not absolutely necessary to remove the selector lever knob (1). However, removing it does make it easier to remove the preselector lever trim.

IMPORTANT:

Do not shear off turning lock of selector lever knob (1).

Therefore do not twist selector lever knob (1) when removing.

Pull off selector lever knob (1) with a forceful jerk.

Press sides of selector lever cover (2) together and feed out towards top.

Unclip trim for preselector lever (4) with special tool 00 9 341 from mounting points (3).

Disconnect associated plug connections and remove trim for preselector lever (4) towards top.

Fig 1: Identifying Lever Knob

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Installation:

Make sure retainers (1) are correctly seated in appropriate mounts of trim for preselector lever (2).

Replacement:

If necessary, remove DRIVING DYNAMICS SWITCH .

Fig 2: Identifying Correct Seating Of Retainers In Trim

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.