Center console trim with a DCT

[kgaler]

I wasn't able to find any information here about replacing the center console trim with a DCT. I don't think the DCT shifter is much more than a glorified switch and doesn't have a mechanical connection to the transmission like a manual or auto.

If I try to remove the console as per the DIY do you think I'll have any trouble?

TIA

[Mr Kleen]

It's a PITA to remove the center console with a DCT but it is possible. I didn't remove the shift lever, not sure how to be honest. I was able to get the console out and back in, but just barely. Be careful or you'll scratch up the dash and possibly the headliner. I hope I never have to do it again...

[kgaler]

So, when you removed the console the shift lever just stayed attached to the console?

I assume there is a wiring harness that needs to be disconnected?

K

[Mr Kleen]

No, it stayed attached to the car. It was very difficult to extract the console with the lever in the way. With a manual you just put the car into 4th gear to get extra room to maneuver. I did it alone so no pictures of the process, sorry.

Make sure to get a set of trim removal tools. The job would be that much harder without them, and it decreases the chance that you'll break or scratch the trim.

[kgaler]

Thanks. I'm sure I'll lose my mind doing this so I just made an appointment with a local shop that works on a lot of BMW's. I'll let you know how it goes.

[kgaler]

Got it changed. Took the guy about 1.5 hours. I'm glad I didn't try to do it myself, I would have gone insane. Looks good.

[CRuben09]

It's actually kind of easy to remove it. The DCT shifter is only connected through a plug. Just disconnect it from the plug and you will have it off. I've removed mine like a dozen time, to clean under the trim. You won't confront any troubles, since you're going to connect it back. Once I got a weird message in the dashboard showing the shifter image in the display, but it was off once I plug it back in.

[Harlequin]

Originally Posted by karlitox09

It's actually kind of easy to remove it. The DCT shifter is only connected through a plug. Just disconnect it from the plug and you will have it off. I've removed mine like a dozen time, to clean under the trim. You won't confront any troubles, since you're going to connect it back. Once I got a weird message in the dashboard showing the shifter image in the display, but it was off once I plug it back in.

Is there any way to remove the DCT Shifter and the wood Trim without removing the whole centre console?

Your statement that you've removed the shifter a dozen or so times would seem to suggest that there is. I can't imagine that you would have removed the entire console that many times...

[Mr Kleen]

Any additional info on removing the DCT shift lever would be greatly appreciated.

[kgaler]

I wasn't able to watch when the mechanic worked on it so I really don't what he did in detail. I do know he wound up removing the center console.

[XHRL]

anyone have any updates on removing the center console trim on cars equipped with DCT?

[e36addict]

You have to remove the entire console to replace the front section of the trim. The trim around the shifter itself pops right out, and for the shifter, you just pop the trim up around it, unplug the sport button and the ribbon-cable to the shifter, and pull up on the shifter to remove it. Super super easy. Pulling the console is maybe a 10-min job.

[Joaco135]

Originally Posted by e36addict

You have to remove the entire console to replace the front section of the trim. The trim around the shifter itself pops right out, and for the shifter, you just pop the trim up around it, unplug the sport button and the ribbon-cable to the shifter, and pull up on the shifter to remove it. Super super easy. Pulling the console is maybe a 10-min job.

Pics will be nice...

[e36addict]

Don't have any as of now.. Maybe if I remember i'll snap some on my next leaky evaporator job..