2005-12 BMW 3-SERIES
armrest cover installation guide

1. Remove the plastic AC vent cover from the rear of the center console. The cover snapped on so you just have to pull it off with some force.

2. There are two metal pins are shown by the red arrows in the picture below that hold the center armrest in place. Remove these two pins by sliding them out.

3. Remove the center armrest from the center console.

4. With the center armrest removed, we can now install the Redline cover on top. Begin by placing the armrest on a flat surface with the top surface facing up to prepare it for the application of adhesives.

5. I prefer to use contact cement because the cure/set time takes awhile between leather on leather. This is important to be able to adjust the position of the leather cover surface later. Apply the adhesive across the top surface of the armrest.

6. Place the cover over the armrest. It is okay if you notice some waves/wrinkles on the top surface of the cover for now, it will flatten out on it's own in the next step. (this is why using a slow curing adhesive is important!)

7. Turn the armrest over and apply adhesive around the perimeter of the armrest (this also flattens out the top surface of the armrest cover since it is resting against a hard surface now). I use a quick curing adhesive here such as super glue.

8. Fold the edges of the Redline armrest cover over the glue applied around the perimeter of the armrest so it is attached to the bottom of the armrest now.

9. Place the armrest back into the center console of your car (reverse of step 3).

10. Slide the metal pins back in to secure the armrest (reverse of step 2).

11. Snap the rear plastic AC vent cover back into place (the reverse of step 1). Use your hand to wipe across the top of the armrest cover one final time to flatten it out and let it cure overnight.