BMW 5 Series Interior Customization Review — Cost & Results

Restoring the BMW E60 535d's Original Charm

This review focuses on a specific BMW E60 535d, a rare model known for its M57 engine, offering impressive fuel efficiency and nearly 300 horsepower without the need for urea injection. The owner opted for a comprehensive interior restoration and "originalization" process to bring the vehicle back to its pristine factory condition. The car, with only 60,000 kilometers (approx. 37,000 miles) and a clean beige interior, underwent detailed work to enhance its inherent value and aesthetics. This included restoring comfort seat components, replacing worn parts, and even upgrading the rear sunshade system.

Comfort Seat and Interior Component Restoration

A key focus was the comfort seat's thigh support gear mechanism. To improve durability, it was replaced with a metal aftermarket part sourced from AliExpress. Despite the affordable price, the quality was satisfactory. The process involved carefully disassembling the thigh support, disconnecting electrical connectors, and removing the motor. The worn-out plastic gear was swapped for the new metal one, with fresh grease applied for smooth operation. Reassembly followed the reverse order, ensuring all electrical functions were tested and connectors secured.

Other interior elements also received attention. A detached rear shelf brake light was resecured using genuine pins. The headliner, showing signs of wear, was replaced with a new unit, a process that surprised the owner with its cost. An Alcantara-style steering wheel cover, not to the owner's taste, was removed, and any residual adhesive was cleaned up. Even the black wheel caps were restored to their original state, thanks to the previous owner having kept the genuine BMW caps.

Exterior Trim and Lighting Refinements

The restoration extended to subtle exterior details that impact the overall look. Worn-out door lamps, where the illuminated logos were no longer visible, were replaced with used genuine parts. The grille, which the owner found less appealing in its previous configuration, was swapped for a version with the classic chrome line, reverting from a non-standard design. Similarly, the M-branded door sills and footrest, which were ill-fitting and poorly marked, were removed and replaced with standard BMW parts, returning the interior to its original specification.

E60 Electric Sunshade and Comfort Box Installation

A significant part of the project involved addressing the malfunctioning rear electric sunshade. Removing the old unit required partial disassembly of the C-pillar and rear shelf area to avoid damaging the beige upholstery. The faulty sunshade motor was replaced with a functional spare unit, restoring the electric blind's operation. Additionally, a "comfort box" (likely referring to an electronic module for enhanced features) was installed, further modernizing the E60's cabin.

Installation process:

1. Disassemble relevant interior panels (e.g., C-pillar, rear shelf) to access faulty components.
2. Carefully remove the old or broken part, such as the electric sunshade motor or seat gear.
3. Install the new or upgraded component, ensuring all connections are secure.
4. Reassemble interior panels, testing all functions to confirm proper operation.

This comprehensive interior customization and restoration project on the BMW E60 535d highlights the value of preserving and enhancing a classic vehicle's cabin. While specific costs were not detailed in USD, the parts and labor involved in such detailed work can vary significantly. The focus on genuine parts and meticulous restoration ensures long-lasting results and maintains the car's original appeal.