51 45 055 Removing and installing/replacing airbag cover on passenger side (up to 07/04)

WARNING: This page does not describe the selected car, but rather 7 other vehicles, including the 2008 MINI Cooper, 2007 MINI Cooper, 2006 MINI Cooper, 2005 MINI Cooper, and 2004 MINI Cooper. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Necessary Preliminary Tasks:

Remove instrument panel top section trim. Refer to 51 45 050 REMOVING AND INSTALLING INSTRUMENT PANEL TOP SECTION TRIM (UP TO 04/07) .
If necessary, remove storage compartment. Refer to 51 16 360 REMOVING AND INSTALLING RIGHT GLOVEBOX and 51 16 390 REMOVING AND INSTALLING/REPLACING INSTRUMENT PANEL TRIM STORAGE TRAY (PASSENGER SIDE) .
If necessary, open cover for glovebox.

Release screws (1).

Feed rod (2) out of retaining straps (3).

Fig 1: Identifying Rod In Retaining Straps

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Unfasten screws (1 and 2).

Remove airbag cover on passenger side.

Fig 2: View Of Airbag Cover On Passenger Side

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

IMPORTANT: Following parts of airbag cover (5) on passenger side must not be damaged or missing:

Retaining straps.
Plastic nuts.
Breaking pieces.
Catches.

Fig 3: Identifying Parts Of Airbag Cover On Passenger Side

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.