How to Remove the Cigarette Lighter in a BMW 5 Series?
4 Answers
The method to remove the cigarette lighter in a BMW 5 Series is: first take out the entire rear panel, and then the cigarette lighter can be removed. The BMW 5 Series models include: BMW 525Li, BMW 525LiM, BMW 530LiM, BMW 530Li, BMW 530Li xDrive, etc. Taking the 2021 BMW 525Li as an example, it is a mid-to-large-sized car with body dimensions of: length 5106mm, width 1868mm, height 1500mm, and a wheelbase of 3105mm. The 2021 BMW 525Li is equipped with a 2.0T turbocharged engine, producing a maximum horsepower of 184PS, a maximum torque of 290Nm, and a maximum power of 135kW.
Last time when I removed the cigarette lighter from my BMW 5 Series, it was actually quite simple, but required some caution. Remember to first remove the car key to cut off power - that's the safest approach. The cigarette lighter itself is located in the lower part of the center console, and you can simply pull it out by pinching both sides with your fingers. The key part is the base - you'll need to gently pry open the panel's surrounding clips using a plastic pry tool (avoid metal tools to prevent scratching the interior). After lifting the panel, you'll see the fixed metal bracket and wiring connector. The connector has a clip - press it to disconnect. The bracket usually has two screws securing the cigarette lighter base. Use a T8 or T10 Torx screwdriver to remove these screws, then the entire base can be taken out. Don't rush the process as plastic clips can break easily. When reinstalling, don't forget to reconnect the wiring and test the functionality.
As a frequent DIYer of German cars, sharing some tips on removing a BMW cigarette lighter. The key is to protect the interior from scratches - recommend purchasing a plastic trim removal tool set online. After disconnecting the battery, first rotate the metal head counterclockwise to remove it, then pry open the base panel. The center console panel connections on 5 Series are very precise; start prying from below the AC knob for safest removal. After opening, you'll see the power wires - remember to photograph the wiring positions first. The base mounting screws are usually hidden on the sides; use a magnetic screwdriver to prevent dropping them deep into the console. Pay special attention as the lighter's spring contacts deform easily - press the spring with your thumb while slowly withdrawing it during removal. After reassembly, test the heating function to avoid rework. The most troublesome part is actually reinstalling the panel clips.
My friend who runs a repair shop taught me the method: just prepare a T8 screwdriver and a plastic pry tool. After unscrewing the ignition switch counterclockwise, gently separate the panel along the gap of the center console using the pry tool. Note that the clip positions are at the four corners, and release when you hear a click sound. The base is a metal bracket with a plastic shell structure, and you can remove it by unscrewing the fixing screws on both sides. The power cord plug has a foolproof design to prevent reverse insertion. The entire disassembly process is very simple as long as you don't pull the wiring harness forcefully. A key reminder is that BMW wire connectors are relatively fragile, so when unplugging, hold the base and don't pull the wires. When reinstalling, first align the panel clips, press from bottom to top to reset, and finally test the functionality.
