Is there a trick to getting these fascia end caps back on without removing the A pillar trim and the need to disconnect the battery? I didn't realize it was necessary when I removed them so I didn't. My driver's side came off and went on without much difficulty. My passenger side one was tricky getting out but now seem impossible without the A pillar removal.

A photo would help. which end cap? But it sounds like you mean The wooden/piano black/foundry part?

Disconnecting the battery is listed in just about every maintenace procedure, even if it's only because you have to unplug an interior lamp. I rarely do to be honest.

The A pillar cover is easy to remove, First of all make sure you have clean hands, that material is easily marked. Pop out the plastic cap with 'airbag' on it, then undo the torx screw behind it. The trim them just pulls off.

Thanks, so not an issue pulling this cover and setting off airbag? I agree BMW likes to start everything with Disconnect Battery.

I survived doing mine a few weeks ago. It's just a plastic cover. The air bag is separate behind it.

Thanks. I snapped the negative cable hold down bolt and had to make shift one so the least amount of removal the better.

Getting that screw cap off without destroying it or the A pillar was a pain. I ended using a small pick but a small dent in the plastic was unavoidable. The A pillar cover came off real easy after that. You are right that removing this without a battery disconnect looks plenty safe.

Most of these disconnect battery things are just the manufacturer covering their backside with regards to litigation if someone manages to do something stupid.