Frustration Free - E39 HVAC Panel Button Replacement

We show you the easy and less frustrating way to replace a cracked button on your HVAC button panel. Works on E53 and E46 as well.
If you have ever replaced or open the button panel, you know how HARD it is to put it all back together without throwing it against a wall. In this video, we explain how to replace the buttons and re-assemble the easy way.
Replacement buttons can be found using this part number: 64116924315

[@clardrives9301]

Just wanted to show my thanks and appreciation. After hours of pecking at the panel with a screw driver and swearing, I stumbled on this video and all is well. HVAC panel is back in and fully operational.

[@BluePurpleRed]

Awesome! Glad to have helped!

[@MindHunger]

Thanks for this video! I was able to get the new buttons out of the backplate no problem using the screwdriver trick. To get the buttons to attach I put clear silicone caulking on the back of the button. Next press it securely onto the climate control unit, then let the caulking dry for 30 minutes (driving might vibrate the buttons off).

[@keithgoulding7929]

Thanks, this really helped. I was going mad trying to get the back plate back on without disturbing the little motherf...ers. Eventually found your video and took all the control buttons out before replacing the back plate. It worked like a charm. I used a screwdriver from the front to get the first few buttons out but found it less damaging to push them out from behind. Great video. Cheers.

[@staysleepn]

1:05 “before I….. got mad😒” 😂😂😂😂😂😂😂

[@paulcarbone1969]

That's a great idea, which I used and thank you. I demolished the first panel I purchased trying to get those white dots off. I was informed they are inspection marks! Why don't they put the marks on the back? I guess we won't ever know unless we reach out to BMW? I don't think I would have ever gotten the back plate on without your idea, thanks again and God bless you.

[@BluePurpleRed]

Glad it helped!

[@StephenTinius]

Thanks for posting. Instead of the screw driver, place your pointer finger and thumb over the button like you're holding a pinch of salt, then press in with your thumb nail on the bottom of the button and it pops right out. Keep track of which buttons go in which spot, they are no interchangeable left and right. Where the design for the simple panel of buttons came from is beyond me, similar to the fragile design of the front cup-holders, tiny springs, tiny plastic that likes to break, rubber that disintegrates. But O! I loved my E39s!

[@BluePurpleRed]

Good tips Stephen!

[@dali_d]

Can i just replace the whole front section,? without taking the buttons out

[@311superfly]

Can of worms. I will try your method. Or masking tape on buttons to secure them,,? Just a thought.

[@OldManTenno]

I just ordered a new panel, and it came with white paint marks (much larger) on the front as well. Why would they do this? It took about an hour to scrub them off.

[@BluePurpleRed]

The idea is that you don't wash it off.

[@v0lts]

I fucking hate plastic. This stupid piece of shit unit made me question my car enthusiasm and what comes with it. If I wouldn't have found this vid and taken it apart 5 more times without a good result I would realyl consider selling the car.