Selector lever — removal and installation (BMW 3 Series E46)

Removal

1. Raise the vehicle and support it on supports (see "Raising and supporting the vehicle"). Make sure the selector is in the "P" position.

2. Under the vehicle, loosen the nut securing the selector cable to the transmission lever (Fig. 2.2).



3. Loosen the lock nut securing the cable sheath and remove the cable from the bracket.

4. Inside the car, pull the handle off the selector lever with a strong jerk.

Note: Do not turn the handle as this will break it.

5. Carefully remove the selector cover (together with the selector cover) from the center console. Remember the location of the electrical wiring connectors located under the trim and disconnect them.

6. Remove the two screws securing the trim panel located behind the selector (Fig. 2.6). Remove the trim panel.



7. Remove the small items tray located above the ashtray.



8. Remove the four screws and take the ashtray/switch out of the center console. Remove the switch and disconnect the wiring connectors from it, noting their location (Fig. 2.8).



9. Loosen the tightening screw of the locking cable clamp (Fig. 2.9).



10. Disconnect the remaining electrical wiring connectors from the selector, remembering their location.

11. Remove the three screws securing the selector to the floor, lift the selector and disconnect the locking cable from it.

Installation

12. Installation is performed in the reverse order of removal. Please note the following points:

• a) Adjust the locking cable (see below).
• b) Before installing the selector handle, place the cover on the selector lever so that the retaining ring located on the selector lever is visible.
• c) After finishing the work, adjust the selector cable (see paragraph 3).