I need to remove the centre consul on my 2008 530D E61. I have trawled u tube for information on how to remove it and have got answers to most of my questions . I have managed to overcome most of the fastenings but the part i am stuck with is how to undo the end in front of the gear lever. I have managed to undo the two 7 mil screws at the front but cannot pull the consul back towards the gear lever. Do I have to remove the vertical panel where the ashtray is? is there fastenings behind this panel? I would have thought the 7 mil screws on each side would have been enough to hold it at the front. I hope I don't have to start pulling the front of the dash off to get at hidden screws. answers please. thanks Paneuro

Morning Andrew

Have you checked Realoem for the position of fixings ?

Dave

no, good thinking Greydog thanks Paneuro.

hi Greydog, just had a look but can't find any fixings at the front other than the 2 screws on each side. Stumped so far and I don't want to break anything. thanks Paneuro.

Managed to strip the dash at the front i.e. from the top down as far as the ash tray but still can't get it out, Having another go at it today so hope I don't break anything. Paneuro.

Partial success, I have managed to remove my centre consul and get to the heart of the matter. A worn handbrake quadrant. Has anybody had the same problem? Does anybody know if BMW recalled any 5 series for this problem? I would have thought the teeth would have been hardened but after putting a file across them this is not the case. God only knows what a new one will cost? I can't check cause its Saturday but I will find out on Monday (will make sure I'm near a defib machine) If anybody has any ideas , please let me know. thanks Paneuro.