Removal and installation the center console (BMW 3 Series E46)

Removal

1. Using both hands, lift up the gear shift lever handle "2".



2. Disconnect the gear shift lever cover "1" and remove it upward.



3. Disconnect the boot "1" of the shift lever and remove it through the lever.



4. Open curtain "1" and press it down completely. In this way, ashtray "2" or the pocket installed instead of it is pressed up.



5. Remove the ashtray/pocket upwards.



6. Remove the two screws securing the holder "3". The position of the screws is shown in the illustration by position "A".

7. Disconnect the ashtray connector.



8. Remove screws "1".

9. Open the fasteners "2" and "3" and remove the visor "4" upwards. If necessary, remove the ashtray lamp cable "5".

The positions of the clamps are indicated in the illustration of point 13 in the subsection "Installation".

10. Unscrew "2", disconnect the switch connector on the back side and remove the visor.



11. Raise the center armrest "1" if equipped.





12. Lift the center console "2" from the rear and remove it through the center armrest and the parking brake lever "3".

Removal

13. Check whether the visor "4" has damaged fasteners "2" and "3" and guides "5". Replace the visor if necessary.

14. Installation is performed in the reverse order of removal.