Step-by-Step Guide: Remove BMW E90 E91 E92 E93 3 Series Dashboard

Step-by-Step Guide: Remove BMW E90 E91 E92 E93 3 Series Dashboard

Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. Disassembling the Interior
   1. Removing the Center Console
      1. Lift up the trim in the gear shifter area
      2. Disconnect the connectors
      3. Remove the whole trim
      4. Remove the e-brake cover
   2. Removing the Vent and Ashtray Section
   3. Removing the Lower Panel and Footwell Light
   4. Removing the Side Panel
   5. Removing the Glove Box and Cup Holders
   6. Removing the Radio and Climate Control Module
   7. Removing the Steering Wheel and Key Fob Holder
   8. Removing the Gauge Cluster and Trim
   9. Removing the Light Control Module
   10. Removing the Front Pillars and Dashboard
       1. Removing the weather strip
       2. Removing the plastic cover
       3. Removing the screws
       4. Removing the defroster vent
   11. Removing the Airbag Connector
   12. Removing the Passenger Airbag Connector
3. Conclusion

🔧 Disassembling the Interior of an E90: A Step-by-Step Guide

Are you looking to disassemble the interior of your E90? In this article, we will provide you with a comprehensive guide on how to remove various components of the interior, including the center console, dashboard, and more. By following these step-by-step instructions, you will be able to access the heater core and make the necessary replacements. So, let's get started!

1. Introduction

Before we dive into the disassembly process, let's take a moment to understand why you may need to remove the interior components of your E90. One common reason is a leaking heater core that requires replacement. By gaining access to the core, you can address the issue effectively. However, the disassembly process can be quite complex, so it's crucial to follow the steps carefully.

2. Disassembling the Interior

2.1 Removing the Center Console

To begin the disassembly process, we will start with the center console. Here are the steps to follow:

1. Lift up the trim in the gear shifter area: Start by lifting up the trim that sits inside the center console. Be careful with the brittle leather or fake leather material.
2. Disconnect the connectors: There will be multiple connectors in the center console that need to be disconnected. Pull them apart while avoiding pulling by the wires.
3. Remove the whole trim: Slide the trim towards the back of the car and remove it entirely. Be mindful of the various clips and connectors that hold it in place.
4. Remove the e-brake cover: Pry off the plastic cover that is covering a fastener inside. Use a trim tool or a flathead screwdriver to carefully remove the cover.

2.2 Removing the Vent and Ashtray Section

Next, we will focus on removing the vent and ashtray section. Follow these steps:

1. Start from the top: Begin by removing the vent and ashtray section from the top. There will be tabs all around the sides that need to be pried open.
2. Disconnect the vent connector: Carefully pull out the connector for the vent. It may require some wiggling and pulling by the edges.
3. Remove the ashtray: Pry off the plastic cover that conceals the fastener. Using a trim tool or a flathead screwdriver works well for this task.
4. Slide out the connector underneath the e-brake handle: Push the connector downwards and slide it out of the holder.

2.3 Removing the Lower Panel and Footwell Light

Now, let's focus on removing the lower panel and footwell light:

1. Remove the lower panel: Push the push tab towards the middle of the car to release the lower panel. Keep pulling it off once the tab is released.
2. Slide the lower panel towards the back: Slide the panel towards the back of the car to detach it completely.
3. Disconnect the footwell light: Push the footwell light straight down to disconnect it from its holder.

2.4 Removing the Side Panel

In this step, we will remove the side panel:

1. Remove the hood lever: Take out the Phillips screw inside the hood lever and slide the lever out.
2. Remove the side panel: Lift the side panel off the carpet, starting from the bottom. There will be push pins and connectors that need to be carefully released.

2.5 Removing the Glove Box and Cup Holders

Now, let's proceed with the removal of the glove box and cup holders:

1. Remove the cup holders: Use a plastic trim tool to pry off the trim around the cup holders. Be careful as the trim may be brittle and prone to cracking.
2. Remove the cup holder screws: Unscrew the four Phillips screws that hold the cup holders in place.
3. Remove the glove box: Disconnect the glove box light, trunk switch, and flashlight connectors. Pull the wiring from the clips built into the glove box.

2.6 Removing the Radio and Climate Control Module

Next, we will tackle the removal of the radio and climate control module:

1. Remove the radio screws: Locate and unscrew the two Phillips screws on each side of the radio.
2. Slide out the radio: Slide the radio out and disconnect the connectors.
3. Pull out the antenna cable: Release the tab and pull out the antenna cable.

2.7 Removing the Steering Wheel and Key Fob Holder

In this step, we will guide you through the removal of the steering wheel and key fob holder. Refer to our linked video for detailed instructions.

2.8 Removing the Gauge Cluster and Trim

Now, let's move on to the removal of the gauge cluster and trim:

1. Remove the gauge cluster trim screws: Unscrew the two T10 screws located on the top of the trim.
2. Disconnect the gauge cluster connector: Locate and disconnect the connector at the back of the gauge cluster.

2.9 Removing the Light Control Module

Next, we will remove the light control module:

1. Pry off the light control module: Use a plastic pry tool to carefully pry off the module, which is held in place with pins.
2. Disconnect the module connector: Push the tab in and move the lever down to release the connector.

2.10 Removing the Front Pillars and Dashboard

Finally, we will remove the front pillars and dashboard:

1. Remove the weather strip: Start by removing the weather strip that covers the pillars.
2. Remove the plastic cover: Use a plastic pry tool to remove the plastic cover, revealing screws underneath.
3. Remove the screws: Locate and remove the screws that hold the dashboard in place.
4. Remove the defroster vent: Get your plastic pry tool behind the vent and release the tabs.
5. Disconnect the airbag connector: Pull out the airbag connector for the passenger side.

3. Conclusion

Congratulations! You have successfully disassembled the interior of your E90. Following these step-by-step instructions will help you gain access to the various components for repairs or upgrades. Remember to be cautious and take your time during the disassembly process. If you have any further questions or need additional guidance, feel free to reach out. Happy DIY-ing!

Highlights:

• Step-by-step guide on disassembling the E90 interior
• Detailed instructions for removing various components
• Tips for handling delicate materials and connectors
• Pros and cons of the disassembly process

FAQ

Q: Is it necessary to remove the interior components to access the heater core? A: Yes, removing the interior components is necessary to access and replace the heater core effectively.

Q: What tools do I need for the disassembly process? A: You may need a trim tool, plastic pry tool, screwdriver (Phillips and flathead), needle nose pliers, and T20 and T25 screws.

Q: How long does the disassembly process take? A: The disassembly process can be time-consuming and may vary depending on your experience level. It is recommended to allocate a significant amount of time for the task.

Q: Can I replace or repair parts on my own after disassembling the interior? A: Yes, once you have access to the components, you can replace or repair parts as needed. However, it is essential to follow proper procedures and seek professional advice if necessary.

Resources:

• Video on removing the steering wheel
• Replacement cup holders on Amazon