51 45 070 Removing and installing or replacing dashboard lower section

Necessary preliminary tasks: 

• Move wheels into straight-ahead position
• Disconnect BATTERY NEGATIVE LEAD
• Remove COMPLETE INSTRUMENT CLUSTER
• Remove INSTRUMENT PANEL TOP SECTION TRIM 
• Remove KNEE PROTECTION, DRIVER'S SIDE, LEFT 
• Remove STEERING COLUMN SWITCH CLUSTER
• Remove FOOTWELL LIGHTS
• Remove GLOVE COMPARTMENT LIGHT
• If necessary, remove CD CHANGER

Release screws (1).

Release plug for On-Board Diagnosis (2).

Fig 1: Identifying Plug For On-Board Diagnosis And Screws

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Release screws (1).

Fig 2: Identifying Screws

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Release screws (1).

Fig 3: Identifying Screws

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Release screws (1).

Remove instrument panel lower section (2) towards rear.

Installation: 

Make sure air ducts are correctly seated.

Replacement: 

Remove vents (3).

Fig 4: Identifying Instrument Panel Lower Section And Screws

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.