Buildjournal Race Dash Center Console Install DIY for E46 M3

In this article I will show you a DIY install for our Buildjournal Race Dash Center Console for the E46 M3. This race dash solution allows you to easily convert your center radio & A/C dashboard on the E46 M3 to accommodate a variety of switches, toggles and buttons for race car builds. If you’re planning to reduce weight and thin your wiring harness, you will most likely end up with several factory switches that will no longer be in use and be switched our with your own components. Therefore it is best to remove the unnecessary weight and clean up the center dashboard for a nice functional panel.

1.1 Depending on your factory package, you may have either a full size navigation unit or two separate radio/HVAC controls

1.2 Remove factory Dash Trim

3.1 Align the Center Panel Frame with the factory dash and make sure the edges are flush

3.2 Use a pen or paint marker to mark the two bottom holes for drilling

3.3 Use a 1/4″ drill bit to create the 2 bottom holes

3.4 Mark the hole locations on the upper half of the Dash Panel Frame – there is a hole on each side of the panel

3.5 Use a 1/4″ drill bit to create the 2 holes on each side

4.1 Use the supplied (4) M6 bolt and (4) M6 locknut to secure the Center Dash Panel

5.1 We recommend cutting the Carbon Fiber Dash Panel with a hole saw cutter drill bit

7.1 Use the supplied (4) M4 bolt and (4) M4 washers to secure the Center Dash Panel

7.2 Use 3mm hex head for Titanium bolts or 2.5mm hex head for Black bolts