51 45 050 Removing and installing trim for upper section of instrument panel

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.

Necessary preliminary tasks:

Remove both panels for front roof pillar.
Remove trim for instrument panel (lower section).
Remove complete instrument carrier.
Remove passenger airbag.

Release screws (1).

Fig 1: Releasing Screws

G03153971

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Disconnect Bowden cable (1) for temperature-controlled ventilation.

Fig 2: Disconnecting Bowden Cable For Temperature-Controlled Ventilation

G03153972

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Lift off cap (1) and unfasten screw. Unfasten screws and remove left oddments tray.

Fig 3: Lifting Off Cap And Unfasten Screw And Remove Left Oddments Tray

G03153973

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Unclip rubber gaiter for steering column.

Fig 4: Unclipping Rubber Gaiter For Steering Column

G03153974

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Release screws (1).

Fig 5: Releasing Screws

G03153975

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Lift trim for upper section of instrument panel upwards and remove through passenger door.

Fig 6: Lifting Trim For Upper Section Of Instrument Panel Upwards And Remove Through Passenger Door

G03153976

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Version up to 09/97:

Installation:

Left/right plastic guides (1) and center (2) must be installed.

Fig 7: Identifying Left/Right Plastic Guides And Center

G03153977

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Version from 09/97:

NOTE: Plastic guides are not installed with newer mountings (1 and 2).

Fig 8: Identifying Plastic Guides

G03153978

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.