51 42 000 Removing and installing rear left or right door trim panel (long version or from 03/2007)

Special tools required: 

• 00 9 317

Necessary preliminary tasks: 

• Remove FOOTWELL LIGHT at bottom

Version with roller sun blind: 

• Remove ROLLER SUN BLIND  on fixed side window

Lever out protective caps (1) on door trim panel (3) and release screws underneath.

Tightening torque 51 42 1AZ .

If necessary, lever out airbag emblem (2) with special tool 00 9 317  and release screw underneath.

Tightening torque 51 42 4AZ .

Fig 1: Identifying Protective Caps, Door Trim Panel And Airbag Emblem

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

If necessary, wear gloves due to sharp edges on cutout (1).

Firmly pull on cutout (1) of footwell light and thus detach door trim panel (2) from clips (3).

Fig 2: Identifying Door Trim Panel And Clips

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Carefully unclip door trim panel (1) at top from retainers (3).

Feed door trim panel (1) upwards out of central clip mounting and release button.

Installation: 

Attach central clip mounting to door trim panel.

Prior to installation, bend open retainer on inner door plate for central clip mounting (2).

Fig 3: Identifying Door Trim Panel And Retainers

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Unhook Bowden cable (1) from door lock (2).

Fig 4: Identifying Bowden Cable And Door Lock

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Model with side airbag: 

Disconnect remaining plug connections.

Remove door trim.

Installation: 

Connect all plugs to original locations.

Installation: 

All clips (2) are white.

If necessary, replace faulty clips (2).

Attach central clip mounting (1) to door trim panel.

Fig 5: Identifying Central Clip Mounting And Clips

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Installation: 

After assembling the door trim panel proceed as follows:

• Open door window.
• Lock with vehicle key.
• check whether the locking knob linkage can move freely, align linkage if necessary