Q: How to remove and install center console on BMW Z3?
A: To remove and install components for E30 models, start by disconnecting the negative battery cable, then remove the lower dash trim from under the steering column. Pull out the ashtray from the rear of the console, remove the screw underneath, and disconnect the wiring after pulling the console back off the brake lever. For manual transmission, pull off the shift knob and boot; for automatic vehicles, unclip the trim and remove the exposed screws. Disconnect the window switches, remove screws from the forward ashtray console, and disconnect the wiring for the lighter. Remove bolts below the heater controls, rotate the retainers on the sides of the console, and pull it out, with installation being the reverse of removal. For E36 models, except Z3, remove the ashtray, cover, and hazard switch, then the console and glove compartment, followed by the lower dash trim, gear shifter handle, clock, and center console, with installation reversing the removal process. For Z3 models, disconnect the negative battery cable and cover the terminal, then remove rear center console retaining fasteners, the rubber boot around the parking brake lever, and lower side panel retaining screws. Pry off trim caps, remove screws holding the left side lower instrument panel trim, and take out the radio and shifter handle. Remove the shift boot or indicator cover, disable and remove SRS components as needed, and pull the climate control cover plate away to access switches. Remove the ashtray and its holder, storage box, and cup holder assembly, then pull the trim plate in front of the parking brake lever back and lift it off. Remove finishing caps and screws in the footwell, then fasteners inside the radio opening and attachment screws from the climate control cover plate. Raise the rear of the center console slightly while pulling it toward the rear of the vehicle to disengage front locking clips, remove cigar lighter wires, slide the center console toward the left, rotate as necessary to clear the parking brake handle, and remove the console, with installation being the reverse of removal.