51 11 158 Replacing baseplate for license plate

WARNING: This page does not describe the selected car, but rather 7 other vehicles, including the 2003 BMW 540i, 2002 BMW 540i, 2001 BMW 540i, 2000 BMW 540i, and 1999 BMW 540i. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Unscrew and remove licence plate.

Remove BOTH BODY MOLDINGS .

If necessary, lever out expanding wedges (1) at top.

Lever out license plate holder at bottom and remove towards front/top.

Fig 1: Removing Both Body Moldings

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Lever chrome strip (1) out of clips (2) of body molding and remove.

Fig 2: Removing Chrome Strip Out Of Clips Of Body Molding

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Version from 08/2000:

Installation:

Catches (1) to (3) of holder (4) must not be damaged.

Fig 3: Installing Holder

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.