Armrest delete installation question

[E46m3zcp]

I am doing an armrest delete because when I'm driving on the track the armrest is in the way of my elbow and if I flip it up to get it out of the way it will fall back down at the next corner during heavy braking.

The armrest delete center console trim comes with a template intended to cut the back of it, but the original center console trim piece (the one with the armrest) isn't cut in that way. Also, the template cuts out 21 mm in height off the trim piece, which seems like a lot. The template has a writing on it saying E46/2/3/4/5 which I cannot interpret (is it 2002- through 2005??) ... But fitting the piece onto the transmission tunel, there is a big gap on the sides which makes me think I should cut the piece using the template.

Bottom line of my question is: do I really need to cut the trim piece or is it intended to be used with other models than the M3?

I would appreciate answers of people who actually did the delete and cut or did not cut the part.

Also curious about what y'all did with the bluetooth antenna which doesn't screw into the adapter bracket sold with the armrest delete kit.

PS my car is a 2006 with the competition package.

[bmwfnatic]

I did this conversion twice so far. This template was included in the box both times.
I did not cut it, and you shouldn't have to! I think it's for the option package where you have 2 extra 12V sockets for the rear passengers, but not 100% sure.

E46/2/3/4/5 references coupe, wagon, sedan, etc. E46/2 meaning Coupe.

For the bluetooth antenna/bracket that gets replaced by the non-armrest bracket I simply disconnected and deleted it, since I don't use that system because I have a BlueBus.

[E46m3zcp]

I did this conversion twice so far. This template was included in the box both times.
I did not cut it, and you shouldn't have to! I think it's for the option package where you have 2 extra 12V sockets for the rear passengers, but not 100% sure.

E46/2/3/4/5 references coupe, wagon, sedan, etc. E46/2 meaning Coupe.

For the bluetooth antenna/bracket that gets replaced by the non-armrest bracket I simply disconnected and deleted it, since I don't use that system because I have a BlueBus.

Thanks! I use the Bluetooth system for calls so I’m going to try to put some Velcro and stick it to the carpet under the plastic trim.

[Tbonem3]

I have armrest delete, and didn't cut anything.

[heinzboehmer]

Yeah that cut is only necessary for the S493A option, which is the rear 12v sockets, as mentioned above.




If you don't have that, then no need to cut.

[PSUEng]

I have armrest delete and also did not cut anything (I have a coupe). I vaguely remember some difference between coupe and vert affecting the install though.

[Norocehcap]

I can also confirm I did not cut anything installing this in a coupe, I removed the Bluetooth module as it was not needed with Avin Avant 4.

[akamin68]

Considering this modification also. What is the part number of the arm rest delete unit? Can I retain the cup holders?

[Norocehcap]

Considering this modification also. What is the part number of the arm rest delete unit? Can I retain the cup holders?

The BMW Black Short Console (armrest delete center console) is part # 51168234154 and the bracket is part # 51168235570, yes you can retain the cupholders.

[BBB]

The BMW Black Short Console (armrest delete center console) is part # 51168234154 and the bracket is part # 51168235570, yes you can retain the cupholders.

Going to second this comment. I bought both of those items and was able to armrest delete without having to cut anything.

[callmemrwiggles]

The cutout is for convertibles.

[E46m3zcp]

The cutout is for convertibles.

No, not the one from the image I published. That one is for coupes with option 493 according to what was said by others.