Project BMW 135i - Cabin Pressure - Extended Web Version

Dash trim
There's a slim piece of trim on the dashboard that runs above the glovebox. Our silver aluminum trim introduced welcome brightness, but the carbon replacement from BMW Performance is infinitely classier. Fitting is again a case of prying off the stock piece and pushing on the replacement. Very straightforward for DIYers.

Slide plastic blade under...        read full caption Slide plastic blade under stock trim piece	Gently pry trim away from...        read full caption Gently pry trim away from dash	Push carbon trim piece into...        read full caption Push carbon trim piece into place using the OE holes
The improvement is dramat...        read full caption The improvement is dramatic!

Center Console
Since you've started to replace the stock trim, you better see the job through. The remaining pieces are on the center console - around the shifter and the ashtray. However, fitting is a little more complicated since you need to remove the console from the car - not a quick job, but straightforward if you're patient. We did have a slight problem with the ashtray once the new carbon lid was fitted. For some reason, the lid wouldn't open as smoothly afterwards. Derek tried a few tricks to help it but it didn't seem to work. We now have to hit the lid harder to operate it. Yet the results are worth this small sacrifice, in our opinion.

First remove the heater module...        read full caption First remove the heater module by sliding a blade into the gaps and prying it away	You will need to disconnect...        read full caption You will need to disconnect two plugs behind the heater module. These have locking clips that uses a swiveling mechanism	Now remove a cover over a...        read full caption Now remove a cover over a fixing screw behind the e-brake
Remove the armrest by sliding...        read full caption Remove the armrest by sliding your blade into the rear cover to release the clips	There are two 10mm nuts to...        read full caption There are two 10mm nuts to remove at the back of the console	Unclip the shift boot and...        read full caption Unclip the shift boot and pull the shift knob straight up to release it. Don't twist or you will break the retaining clip but it is very stiff
Remove the foam insulation...        read full caption Remove the foam insulation under the boot	This reveals two 10mm nuts...        read full caption This reveals two 10mm nuts under the shift boot. Remove these	Unclip the e-brake boot to...        read full caption Unclip the e-brake boot to reveal a 10mm nut