Dashboard removal questions
 

I'm in the realm of having to replace the heater blower motor in my X5 and I need to do it sooner rather than later so I just have a couple of questions..
Could I do it without disconnecting the battery but just removing the airbag fuses?
Does the centre console have to be removed also?
Do the indicator stalks have to come out?
I have swapped the FSU a few times to no avail but a swift thump to the top of tdash sometimes brings the fan back to life so I would say it's definitely failing.

I've read and watched a few videos on how to go about it but I would rather someone who has experience answer the questions.
Thanks.

It would be better to disconnect the battery however if you reconnect to test the motor you will set a code for the passenger airbag if it's not plugged in. Trying to do it without removing the center console is going to be a fight and removing the console gives you a chance to do some cleaning ;) Indicator stalks stay in as far as I remember but take note how the seal over the steering column attaches, I think best way is to remove it from cover and leave it on the dash.

Try to take note if the fan motor mount screws are loose when you take them out.

I thought it might be console out.Why the loose screw check..?

I'm pretty sure mine were loose and I'm thinking it was on purpose for noise. I didn't want to take any chances so made the screws tight on the replacement and sure enough it is a bit noisier.

From memory, the washers were just contacting the rubber grommets and not tightened down to the shoulder or sleeve to the predetermined crush.

It would be interesting to know if you also find this to be the case.

The bolts do tighten up but there is a rubber dampener to stop vibration.

Take pictures! I'll be doing the same work sometime. The fan squeals now and then on mine.

I only took one photo and that was with the dash removed. I did a write up on how to do it and in what sequence on Xdrivers forum uk.