Safety Warning
DIY auto repair can cause serious injury, fire, or vehicle damage. These guides are for informational purposes only. Always follow OEM torque specs, wear PPE, and consult a certified mechanic if you are unsure. You are solely responsible for your safety.
51 16... Removing And Installing/Replacing Trim For Gearshift
Risk of damage!
When working on trim panel components, make sure that the sensitive surfaces are not scratched or damaged.
Necessary preliminary tasks:
Version with controller:
- Remove controller
Version with manual transmission:
- Remove gaiter for gear lever . See 25 11 081 REPLACING GAITER (SHIFT LEVER COVER) FOR SHIFT LEVER (128i) or 25 11 081 REPLACING GAITER (SHIFT LEVER COVER) FOR SHIFT LEVER (135i) .
Version with automatic transmission:
- Remove finisher for preselector lever . See 25 16 065 REPLACING GAITER (SELECTOR LEVER COVER) FOR SHIFT TOWER (128i) or 25 16 065 REPLACING GAITER (SELECTOR LEVER COVER) FOR SHIFT TOWER (135i) .
Pull trim (1) upwards and thereby release from retainers (2) and catches (3).
Installation:
Cables must not be jammed.
Retainers (2) and catches (3) must not be damaged.
If replacing on version with controller:
Provide trim (1) with opening (2) for controller (3).
NO RELATED
Use the Manual With the Right Hardware
Pair factory procedures with proven DIY tools so the instructions are easier to execute.
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When to See a Mechanic
Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:
- • You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
- • Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
- • The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
- • You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
- • You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.