Easy Steps to Install the Ultimate Armest in
Your R50 to R59 MINI Cooper



This installation video is for the Ultimate Armrest G2NMI4016BLK (fits R50-R59 models) and NMI4016/BLK (for R50-R53 models).



PLEASE NOTE
If you are removing the factory armrest, you will need an Armrest Delete Kit to convert the center console back to original. Otherwise, you will have the old factory armrest mounting hardware exposed. For the 2008-2013 Convertible R57 you will need an alternative Armrest Delete Kit, see G2NMI1503-P.

This comfortable armrest from Italy is easy to install, works great, and looks like it belongs in your MINI. It is easily attached to the center console while still offering easy access to the handbrake. For MINIs without the factory armrest.

Retractable pad with a storage compartment beneath, and a retractable cup holder. The entire armrest assembly can be 'flipped up' out of the way when not in use.

This armrest works even with the seat in the maximum forward position! Simply slide the arm pad in the 'open' position to extend its reach.

Installation:
Install Level: MODERATE
Tools required: PHILIPS SCREWDRIVER

Installation is simple: The armrest bracket mounts into the rear cup holder with three screws. The storage compartment's padded bottom surface rests on the center console supporting any weight applied to the armrest. The design allows for easy access to the emergency brake handle. See transcription below for more information.


Part number NMI4016/BLK fits MINI Cooper and Cooper S models build between 2002 and 2008:

  • 2002-2006 R50 Hatchback
  • 2005-2008 R52 Convertibles
  • 2002-2006 R53 Cooper S Hatchback

Part number G2NMI4016BLK fits the following MINI Cooper and Cooper S models built between 2007 and 2015:

  • 2007-2013 R56 Hardtop
  • 2008-2014 R55 Clubman
  • 2009-2015 R57 Convertibles
  • 2012-2015 R58 Coupe
  • 2012-2015 R59 Roadster

VIDEO TRANSCRIPTION

Hi gang, it's Brendan MacRae from Mini Mania, and today we're going to do an installation video of our "Ultimate Armrest" for your Gen2 MINI (G2NMI4016BLK). We also have these available for your Gen1 (NMI4016-BLK) and Gen3 MINI (G3NMI4016).

It's a long part number, but if you do a search on our website for Ultimate Armrest at minimania.com, it'll pull up and then you just match it up for the year of your car. We'll show you how to put this into your car right now.

OK- this is the un-modified Rear Cup Holder that's right behind where your Emergency Brake is, this is your Emergency Brake Boot, and this is basically the orientation of the Ultimate Armrest.

You can see that this Rear Cup Holder is going to replace the one that you have here and it gets secured with these 3 Screws, the smaller of the 3 is the one that goes towards the rear and the two longer Screws go in the front. You don't need to pre-drill any holes, as these are Self Taping Screws. You're only going through a thin bit of material at the bottom of the Factory cup Holder, so there's no reason to either use an Awl or to pre-drill a hole for these Screws. Just make sure that you've got it centered. Start with the rear Screw-that way once you get this one going and you start to get it fairly tight, then it will allow you to move the orientation of it in this direction left to right so that you can get it centered before you start to sink your other two Screws, which go in front here.

Don't be tempted to over-tighten these. You're just going through some plastic here. Once you get him cinched tight that should be good enough. I wouldn't use a Screw Gun or an Electric Screwdriver with these I'd strictly do it by hand.

You'll notice that, your armrest will pivot up out of the way-either when you're setting your Emergency Brake or when you do not need it. Of course you can also slide it forward to give you more access between the Seats and will put the Front Seats back we'll show you how that works and you can also slide your second Cup Holder, that it provides you with, out of the way if you don't need it and you can have a little storage space, which is provided by this really cool Armrest as well.

The last step-you're provided with a little felt disc, peel and stick, so you can cover the tops your Screw heads-gives a nice complete finish. OK, all you need to do is fold your armrest down, and you can either have it in this position or you can slide it forward. It provides a lot of support, which is great for those really long drives.