Could someone tell me how to remove the interior pillars on a 2005 Cooper S? They don't seem to want to come out like they do in the 2004 models.

 

Which pillar are you taking about? A, B, the rear, or none of the above? They should just pull out. I have noticed that once they pull out that there is a metal clip that needs to be pulled out that secures it further in case of airbag deployment. But......05's might be different.

 

a pillar covers need to have the straps cut to remove them completely.

there are 3 straps on each pillar, just cut them with a knife.

im not sure of the replacement part number for the new straps, if you even want to put them back on.

 

Those straps are held in with clips, no?

 

yeah, i think they are held on my a torx screw if im not mistaken.

Bentley says cut them to make them easier to take off.

i never put new ones on and my cover is bolted to the A pillar now, so i guess it doesnt really matter

 

skitelluride531, by "interior pillars" do you mean at either side of the center console (what people usually call the "downtubes")?

 

Sorry, I am talking about the downtubes. Sorry for the confusion.

 

Here is one link that describes the process:
http://www.mini2.com/forum/faq.php?f...aq_faq_removal

 

The newer '05 and '06 downtubes have been altered so that they cannot be pulled up and out like the older ones - the only way to remove them completely is to undo all the center trim and pull them out from below!
But you can push them to the sides which often gives enough room to work on the stereo, or install a MINI circuit ... see this post on my weblog:
http://www.gbmini.net/mtblog/archive..._downtub.shtml

 

Thanks for the link! I was actually planning on painting them, so I guess I will have to just take everything out.