Removing and installing (replacing) rear left or right side trim panel (Cooper Convertible)

WARNING: This page does not describe the selected car, but rather 6 other vehicles, including the 2021 MINI Cooper, 2020 MINI Cooper, 2019 MINI Cooper, 2018 MINI Cooper, and 2017 MINI Cooper. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Preliminary work needed :

Remove/replace backrest for LEFT REAR SEAT and/or remove/replace backrest for RIGHT REAR SEAT .
Remove REAR SEAT .
Remove door sill COVER STRIP .
Release front STRAP FITTING .

Removal:

Flap window channel seal-cover strip (1) forwards.

Remove screw (2).

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Release expanding rivet (1).

Remove screw (2).

Detach the side trim panel (3) inwards from the clips (4).

Take out the side trim panel (3) upwards from the Clips at the top.

Disconnect plug connections and remove side trim panel (3).

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Replacement:

Remount TWEETER .

Installation:

If required, replace faulty clips (4) and the top clamps.

Install side trim panel (3) and in this process connect all plug connections.

Engage side trim panel (3) in clamps at top.

Clip in the side trim panel (3) on the clips (4).

Tighten screw (2).

Tightening torque 51 43 1AZ .

Mount expanding rivets (1).

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Tighten screw (2).

Tightening torque 51 43 1AZ .

Mount window channel strip (1).

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Required reworking :

Install REAR SEAT .
Install door sill COVER STRIP .
Mount front STRAP FITTING .
Install backrest for left REAR SEAT and/or install backrest for RIGHT REAR SEAT .