Just wondering if anyone knows why the center storage/armrest cover slides forward about 5-6 inches. Just messing with it today and couldnt figure out why it did it...or is mine broken or something

 

Because they copied the 530i from 2003 and it does it (along with the last gen 7 series), realy, it does. I think the real reason is for some people who sit close to the steering wheel, so they can still rest thier arm on the cover.

 

the 00TL did the same thing... I think it's in case you need to eat there or use it to write a note, etc.

 

This is a comfort feature of the arm rest. It slides forward so more of your arm and elbow have the opportunity to rest on it. When furthest back, mine for one doesn't fit it very well. Try moving it around to find your comfort position.

 

Thanks for the quick replys, thats the only logical reason i came up with, but my girlfriend looked at me like I was insane. I told her just give me an hour and ill find out from everyone here. Damn I love these forums

 

I really like this feature - use it every day.

In fact, the armrest wasn't high enough, and didn't project far enough forward to suit me, so I raised and extended it with a hidden plastic "box" - now its perfect. Next I'll install a blue light (narrow beam, like the overhead lights that illuminate the console) hidden under the armrest that shines on an analog clock installed on one of the two storage doors in the console, just fore of the shifter.

 

Elbow comfort. Plain and simple.

When in "selfish-mode", You only have one cup holder available, and a comfy place to put your arm. When in "generous-mode", you get an additional cup holder for your friend or S.O., and no comfy arm rest.

I use it in "selfish-mode" daily!

 

Well, it comes in exceptionally handy for those 6MTers out there....now, since the arm rest slides forward 6 inches or so, I can flip through the gears while keeping my arm resting on the arm rest....if it was back in its standard position, I could not and would have to remove my arm from the armrest.

 

The sliding armrest has been a feature of the TL since the second generation came out. It is very handy and allows to you further customize the positioning of the controls and rest your right arm in a comfortable position for driving. A good idea overall.

 

Also for the 5ATers who like to use SS.

 

True dat!!! I always forget about those SS modes on autos...one of these days, in my opinion, almost all cars except true sports cars will go away from the manual trannys and you'll have to live (for those preferring manuals) those tiptronic/SS mode autos.

Thanks for the reminder, Ron A!!!