51 31... Removing And Installing/Replacing Retaining Strip For Cowl Panel Cover

2011 BMW M3 2D Coupe, StandardSECTION 51 31... Removing And Installing/Replacing Retaining Strip For Cowl Panel Cover

Necessary preliminary tasks:Β 

  • Remove COVERΒ  for cowl panel.
IMPORTANT: Retaining strip (2) has an aluminum profile insert (1).
Carefully wind out retaining strip (2) (windscreen breakage).
  1. (4) Glue bead.
  2. (5) Pinched butyl.
  3. (6) Contact surfaces.
    Fig 1: Removing Cowl Panel Cover Retaining Strip
    G09899808Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Installation:Β 

Clean cutout.

Pay attention to center marking on retaining strip (1) and windscreen.

Insert positioner (2) for retaining strip (1) must be removed after it has been fitted on the windscreen but before the windscreen itself is installed.

Replacement of retaining strip without windscreen removal:Β 

If adhesive has managed to get onto retaining strip (1), this area must be cut out partially.

To facilitate installation, coat and body cutout with water.

Replacement of retaining strip with removed or new windscreen:Β 

Fit rubber frame (1).

  1. (3) Aluminum strip
  2. (4) Contact surfaces
  3. (5) Butyl
    Fig 2: Cowl Panel Cover, Aluminum Strip, Contact Surfaces And Butyl
    G09899809Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.
RENDER: 1.0x

NO RELATED

Recommended Tools & Savings

Use the Manual With the Right Hardware

Pair factory procedures with proven DIY tools so the instructions are easier to execute.

Affiliate disclosure: We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

When to See a Mechanic

Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:

  • β€’ You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
  • β€’ Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
  • β€’ The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
  • β€’ You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
  • β€’ You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.