Be cautious when working near the instrument panel and its components to avoid static electricity. To ensure no damage is done, take hold of a known good chassis ground prior to handling these parts. For E30 models, switch off the ignition and turn the screws 90 degrees to get rid of the lower dashboard trim. Take out the mounting nuts for the lower instrument panel trim from behind the panel. While removing them, note their lengths and positions - screws located at both bottom and upper part of instrument cluster Remove sliding lock on combination plug then pull instrumet panel forward. Similarly remove other electrical connections then disconnect it by removing cluster. To install connect plugs then install cluster while putting back screws in their original positions Fit trims panels Back in for E36 models, use a soft plastic pry tool to remove Tor fasteners from top left and top right of cluster Carefully release cluster from dash board and partially pull out Pivot upward instrument connector locking bracket then unplug electrical connector from rear of cluster Release mounting screw below headlamp switch in dash The availability for re-coding an instrument cluster should be checked before disconnecting it as it may need be if replaced Disarm SRS system by turning off ignition switch, remove steering wheel using instrument cluster mounting screws Guard top column shaft with cloth or plastic material before tilting down instrument cluster Pull out the cluster after which you will tilt up electrical connector's locking levers towards unplug inserts Connect plugs and push downwards until they click into place while installing cluster Secure it with retaining screws , evacuate NC system refrigerant , install steering wheel , re-arm SRS system and re-code radio.
