What you're removing and why

The wireless charging tray (part number 849900) is a removable pad that sits in your BMW's center console. It charges compatible phones without a cable when you place them on the surface. Removing it is straightforward — you may need to do this to clean underneath, replace a damaged tray, or straightforward reclaim the space if you no longer use wireless charging.

The tray is held in place by friction and a small retention clip, not by bolts or adhesive. The whole process takes under five minutes and requires no special tools. Because the tray connects to your vehicle's power system, the most important step is disconnecting that power before you pull.

Key Takeaways

  • The wireless charging tray sits in a recessed slot in your center console and lifts straight out with gentle upward pressure.
  • A small plastic retention clip on one side of the tray keeps it from sliding forward; you do not need to remove this clip to take out the tray.
  • Before you pull, disconnect the power cable from the tray if it is still plugged into the console's power port.
  • Once removed, the tray can be cleaned, replaced, or stored; the empty slot does not affect your vehicle's function.
  • Replacement trays are available from BMW dealers under the same part number if yours is cracked or no longer charges.

Disconnect power before you start

If the wireless charging tray is currently plugged in, locate the power cable running from the back of the tray down into the console. Gently pull the connector straight out of the port. This is a straightforward push-fit connection — it will come free with light, steady pressure. Do not yank or twist it, as the connector is plastic and can crack if forced at an angle.

If the tray has not been used in a while and you are unsure whether it is powered, disconnecting it anyway does no harm and takes only a few seconds. The connector is located at the rear of the tray, where it meets the back wall of the console slot. You may need to reach slightly into the console to access it comfortably.

Lift the tray straight up and out

Place your fingers on the front edge of the wireless charging tray, where it meets the console surface. explore steady upward pressure. The tray will rise slightly as the retention clip on the back edge clears the slot. Continue lifting until the tray is completely free of the console opening.

The tray should come out smoothly with gentle, even pressure. If you feel resistance, stop and check that the power cable is fully disconnected and not caught on anything. Do not force it — forcing suggests something is still holding it in place, and pushing harder risks damaging the connector or the console slot itself.

What to do with the empty slot

Once the tray is removed, you will see a rectangular recess in your center console. This space is part of the console's design and is safe to leave empty. You can place small items in it if you wish, though it was designed specifically to hold the charging tray. The empty slot will not affect your vehicle's heating, cooling, or any other system.

If you want to reinstall the tray later, straightforward reverse the process: plug the power connector back in first, then lower the tray into the slot until it seats fully and the retention clip catches. Make sure the connector is fully seated before you push the tray down, or you risk pinching the cable.

Cleaning the tray and console slot

With the tray removed, you now have access to the console slot for cleaning. Use a soft, dry cloth to wipe away dust and debris from inside the recess. If the tray itself is dirty, wipe it down with a slightly damp microfiber cloth and let it air dry completely before reinstalling. Pay special attention to the charging surface on top of the tray, where dust can accumulate and reduce charging efficiency.

Avoid using harsh chemicals or excessive moisture near the power port on the back of the tray. If the port or connector looks corroded, discolored, or damaged, do not attempt to reconnect the tray — contact a BMW service center instead. Corrosion in the power connection can cause charging to fail or create a safety hazard.

Replacing a damaged tray

If your tray is cracked, not charging, or otherwise damaged, you can order a replacement part number 849900 from a BMW dealer or authorized parts supplier. When your replacement arrives, straightforward remove the old tray following the steps above, then insert the new one into the slot and reconnect the power cable.

Make sure the new tray is oriented the same way as the old one — the connector port should face toward the back of the console. The tray will only fit one way, so if it does not seat smoothly, check the orientation and try again. Once it is in place, test the charging function by placing a compatible phone on the surface to confirm the new tray is working.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to remove the entire center console to get the tray out?

No. The tray is designed to be removable without disassembling the console. It lifts straight up and out of its slot. If you cannot remove it with gentle upward pressure, the power cable may still be connected or caught on something inside the console.

What happens if I leave the slot empty?

Nothing. The empty recess does not affect your vehicle's operation, climate control, or electronics. It is straightforward unused space in the console and poses no risk to your BMW's systems.

Can I clean the charging tray with water?

A slightly damp cloth is fine for the tray surface itself. Avoid getting water inside the connector port on the back. Let the tray dry completely before plugging it back in to prevent moisture from entering the power connection.

Is the retention clip something I need to adjust?

No. The retention clip is a fixed part of the console slot and keeps the tray from sliding forward during normal driving. You do not interact with it when removing or installing the tray.

Where do I buy a replacement tray if mine is damaged?

Contact your BMW dealer or an authorized BMW parts supplier and reference part number 849900. You can also search online parts retailers that carry OEM BMW components, though dealer parts carry a warranty.