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Removing Automatic Gear Shift Lever

Model: BMW Serie 3 E46 - Years: 1998, 1999, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006
Part: Transmission

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Video tutorial

To remove the automatic gear shift lever, start by pulling the shift knob upward to detach it. Next, unclip the trim at the base of the shift lever by disconnecting the related connectors and sliding off the leather boot. Then, remove the screws securing the aluminum trim that holds the window switch buttons, and disconnect the connectors from the buttons.

Extract the storage compartment at the base of the center console (under the climate control), and disassemble the ashtray compartment by disconnecting the related connectors. You can then proceed to remove the lever by extracting the pin on the control rod and unscrewing the fastening pins of the lever support plate.

Lift the plate with the lever and remove the side plastic element by taking out the screws to free the wiring. Finally, slide off the gasket at the base, disconnect the cable that allows engine start only when the lever is in the park position, and pull out the connector that secures the gear shift lever to the support plate and the one that connects it to the transmission control cable.


Updated on 17 February 2026 by ScegliAuto


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