BMW E46 3 Series / E46 M3 Convertible Center Console Trim Base – Pre-Modified Armrest Console Mounting Frame Interior Replacement | Replaces OEM Part No. 51168218305

Refresh your BMW E46 Convertible’s interior with the BAVMODS® Pre-Modified Center Console Trim Base, specifically prepared for BMW E46 3 Series and E46 M3 Convertible models equipped with the factory-style center armrest console.

The BMW E46 center console is one of the most frequently used areas of the interior, surrounding the gear selector, parking brake, storage compartments, and center armrest assembly. Over time, the original plastic components can develop cracks, scratches, broken mounting tabs, and other signs of wear, affecting the appearance, alignment, and stability of the surrounding interior trim.

While replacement center console bases are commonly available for BMW E46 Coupe and Sedan models, the E46 Convertible features a different rear floor and center console mounting configuration, preventing these standard replacement components from fitting correctly without modification.

To address this difference, our team at BAVMODS® individually modifies each replacement center console base before shipping. Using the convertible-specific trimming guidelines provided by BMW, we carefully trim, shape, and sand the rear section of the console to accommodate the E46 Convertible’s unique interior structure.

This process eliminates the need for customers to perform the required rear trimming themselves, providing a replacement component that has already been prepared for the convertible application.

Please Note: Because each console is physically modified to accommodate the convertible’s rear floor configuration, the rear section will exhibit visible signs of trimming, sanding, and material removal. These marks are normal and are a direct result of the necessary modification process. The modified area is intended to be concealed by the surrounding interior components once properly installed, maintaining a clean, factory-style appearance in the visible areas of the center console.

Whether you’re replacing a cracked console, restoring an aging E46 Convertible, or completing a full interior refurbishment, this replacement provides a practical solution for restoring the original center console appearance without requiring customers to perform the specialized trimming process themselves.

Key Features & Benefits

BMW E46 Convertible-Specific Preparation: Each console is individually modified to accommodate the different rear floor and center console configuration found in E46 Convertible models.

Professionally Pre-Trimmed by BAVMODS®: Our team performs the necessary rear modifications before shipping, reducing the amount of fabrication required during installation.

BMW Convertible Trimming Guidelines: Modifications are performed using the convertible-specific trimming guidance provided by BMW.

Custom Dremel & Sanding Process: The rear section is carefully trimmed and shaped using rotary cutting and sanding tools to accommodate the convertible’s interior structure.

Factory-Style Interior Appearance: Designed to maintain the original BMW E46 center console appearance in the visible interior areas.

Center Armrest Compatibility: Intended for vehicles equipped with the corresponding factory-style center armrest assembly.

Interior Restoration Component: Ideal for replacing cracked, scratched, worn, or damaged center console bases.

Improved Trim Alignment: Helps restore the intended positioning of surrounding interior trim components.

Original-Style Mounting Arrangement: Retains the corresponding factory console mounting configuration while incorporating the necessary convertible-specific modifications.

No Electronic Programming Required: Installation is a mechanical interior trim replacement and does not require coding.

Vehicle Compatibility

BMW E46 Convertible | 2000–2006

BMW E46 3 Series Convertible

• BMW E46 318Ci Convertible – Select model years
• BMW E46 320Ci Convertible – Select model years
• BMW E46 323Ci Convertible – 2000
• BMW E46 325Ci Convertible – 2001–2006
• BMW E46 328Ci Convertible – 2000
• BMW E46 330Ci Convertible – 2001–2006

BMW E46 M3 Convertible

• BMW E46 M3 Convertible – 2001–2006

Primary Fitment Requirement: Vehicles equipped with the compatible factory-style center armrest console.

Not Compatible

• BMW E46 Sedan
• BMW E46 Coupe
• BMW E46 M3 Coupe
• BMW E46 Touring / Wagon
• BMW E46 Compact / Ti
• BMW E30 / E36 / E90 / E91 / E92 / E93

Important: This product is specifically prepared for BMW E46 Convertible applications. Customers purchasing a replacement for a Coupe or Sedan should select the corresponding unmodified center console version.

Convertible-Specific Modification Process

Unlike BMW E46 Coupe and Sedan models, the E46 Convertible features a different rear floor structure that affects the fitment of the center console base.

Because of these differences, a standard replacement console base cannot be installed correctly in the convertible without modifying the rear section.

BMW provides convertible-specific trimming guidance for adapting the corresponding center console component to this configuration.

At BAVMODS®, we perform this modification before shipping.

Our Preparation Process

1. Each replacement center console base is inspected before modification.
2. The rear section is identified and marked according to the convertible-specific trimming requirements.
3. Our team carefully removes the necessary material using rotary cutting tools.
4. The modified section is shaped to accommodate the convertible’s rear floor configuration.
5. The trimmed edges are sanded and refined to remove excess material.
6. The component is inspected before being prepared for shipment.

Every console is individually modified by our team rather than supplied as an untouched Coupe or Sedan replacement.

Important Cosmetic Disclosure – Visible Rear Trimming Marks

Please read before purchasing.

Because this product is custom-modified for BMW E46 Convertible applications, the rear portion of the console will show visible evidence of the trimming process.

This may include:

• Visible trimming or cutting marks.
• Sanded plastic surfaces.
• Slight variations in the modified edges.
• Areas where original plastic material has been removed.
• Minor cosmetic differences between individually modified units.

These characteristics are normal and expected. They do not indicate that the product is damaged, defective, or previously used.

The modifications are necessary because the E46 Convertible’s rear floor structure differs from the Coupe and Sedan configurations.

Once installed correctly, the modified rear section is intended to be concealed by the surrounding interior components, allowing the visible center console to retain a clean, factory-style appearance.

Customers should expect a professionally modified replacement component rather than an untouched, factory-molded convertible-specific console.

Engine & Transmission Compatibility

Center console compatibility is determined primarily by the vehicle’s interior configuration rather than engine displacement.

Potential compatible applications include E46 Convertible models equipped with:

Four-Cylinder Engines

• M43
• N42
• N46

Inline-Six Engines

• M52TU
• M54
• S54 (E46 M3)

Transmission Compatibility

• Manual Transmission
• Automatic Transmission
• SMG Transmission (E46 M3)

The original center console, armrest configuration, and surrounding trim must match the replacement component.

OEM Replacement Reference

BMW Part Number: 51168218305

Alternative reference formats:

• 51168218305
• 51 16 8 218 305
• 51-16-8-218-305

This product is an aftermarket replacement associated with the listed BMW part number.

Important: The supplied component is modified by BAVMODS® for convertible applications and should not be confused with an unmodified factory-style console replacement.

Product Specifications

Product Type: Center Console Trim Base / Armrest Console Mounting Frame

Vehicle Platform: BMW E46 Convertible

Primary Application: E46 3 Series Convertible / E46 M3 Convertible

OEM Reference: 51168218305

Installation Location: Interior Center Console

Material: Automotive Interior Plastic

Design: Factory-Style Console Base with Convertible-Specific Rear Modification

Modification Process: Custom Rear Trimming, Shaping & Sanding

Modification Performed By: BAVMODS®

Installation Method: Mechanical Replacement

Electronic Programming: Not Required

Package Contents: 1 × Pre-Modified Center Console Trim Base

Product Classification: Aftermarket Interior Replacement Component

Center armrest assemblies, storage inserts, mounting hardware, shift boots, parking brake trim, and surrounding interior accessories are not included unless otherwise specified.

Installation Instructions

1. Park the vehicle securely and switch off the ignition.
2. Inspect the original center console for damaged mounting points, broken tabs, or loose trim.
3. Confirm that the replacement component matches the vehicle’s factory-style center armrest configuration.
4. Move the front seats as necessary to access the console mounting locations.
5. Remove any storage inserts or accessories obstructing access.
6. Carefully remove the surrounding center console trim using appropriate plastic trim removal tools.
7. Remove the gear selector trim or shift boot if necessary.
8. Remove the parking brake boot or surrounding trim as required.
9. Locate and remove the original center console mounting fasteners.
10. Remove or reposition the center armrest assembly if necessary.
11. Disconnect any electrical connectors only if required.
12. Carefully remove the original center console base.
13. Inspect the mounting areas for damaged brackets, broken clips, or missing hardware.
14. Compare the replacement console with the original component.
15. Inspect the pre-trimmed rear section and verify proper clearance with the convertible’s rear floor structure.
16. Position the replacement component into the factory mounting location.
17. Confirm that the modified rear section clears the surrounding interior structure.
18. Align the console with the original mounting points.
19. Reinstall the mounting hardware without overtightening.
20. Reassemble the center armrest and surrounding interior trim.
21. Reinstall the parking brake boot and gear selector trim.
22. Verify proper armrest movement and clearance.
23. Confirm that the parking brake and gear selector operate without interference.
24. Inspect the completed installation for proper alignment, secure mounting, and unwanted movement.

Installation Recommendation: Although the primary convertible-specific trimming has already been performed by BAVMODS®, minor adjustments may still be necessary depending on the vehicle’s production configuration, previous repairs, or aftermarket interior modifications.

Professional installation is recommended for customers unfamiliar with BMW interior disassembly.

Important Compatibility & Installation Notes

• Convertible Models Only: This product is specifically prepared for BMW E46 Convertible applications.
• Pre-Modified Product: Each console undergoes custom rear trimming and sanding before shipment.
• Visible Modification Marks: Customers should expect visible cutting, sanding, or trimming marks on the modified rear section.
• Cosmetic Appearance: The modified area is intended to be concealed once the console is installed correctly. The visible interior surfaces are designed to retain a factory-style appearance.
• Individual Modifications: Because the trimming process is performed individually, minor variations between units are normal.
• Factory Center Armrest: Designed for vehicles equipped with the compatible factory-style center armrest assembly.
• Non-Armrest Models: Vehicles without the corresponding armrest configuration may require additional components.
• OEM Reference 51168218305: Provided for replacement identification purposes. Confirm compatibility with the original component before purchasing.
• E46 M3 Convertible: Intended for compatible E46 M3 Convertible models with the corresponding center console configuration.
• Manual, Automatic & SMG: Transmission type does not independently guarantee compatibility.
• Interior Color & Finish: Confirm the replacement component’s actual color and surface finish before ordering.
• Mounting Hardware: Factory screws and clips may need to be reused.
• Center Armrest Not Included: This listing includes the modified center console trim base only.
• No Electronic Programming: Installation does not require ECU coding or electronic programming.
• Aftermarket Replacement: This product is not a Genuine BMW component.
• Fitment Verification: Customers should verify their vehicle’s center console configuration and compare their original component with the product photographs before purchasing.

Restore Your BMW E46 Convertible Interior

The BMW E46 Convertible remains one of BMW’s most recognizable open-top platforms, combining timeless styling, balanced handling, and a driver-focused interior.

However, as these vehicles age, frequently used interior components such as the center console can become scratched, cracked, loose, or damaged.

Replacing these components can be challenging because the E46 Convertible features a different rear floor configuration than its Coupe and Sedan counterparts.

Rather than requiring customers to purchase a standard replacement console and perform the necessary modifications themselves, BAVMODS® prepares each replacement console with the convertible-specific rear trimming already completed.

This provides a convenient replacement solution for owners restoring their BMW E46 3 Series Convertible or E46 M3 Convertible while maintaining the original appearance of the surrounding interior.

Pre-Modified for Convertible Fitment. Professionally Prepared by BAVMODS®. Restore Your BMW’s Interior with Confidence.

Please refer to the “Fitment” section in the product description for compatibility details.