LeatherZ Armrest

Burt Reynolds · 03-30-2008, 08:24 PM

Hi,

I just picked up my Z Coupeon Saturday and am surprised how little storage there is - tiny glovebox that will hold 2 bills layed out perfectly flat, 2 cubbies near the navigation DVD.

Now the LeatherZ armrest is sound pretty good for the added storage but I have questions-

1. I have the BMW assist (like Onstar- no idea what it is called in BMW) buttons on the center console behind the park brake. How will I access with the LeatherZ????

2. I wonder if my elbow will feel like it is to high with the armrest? It feels pretty good right now.

Thats it-

BR

Reach · 03-30-2008, 10:18 PM

Its fantastic, and you should order it without hesitation. It is designed so that it clears the BMW assist box. The rear of the armrest is just in front of the lift flap for the BMW assist buttons, you'll be fine.

I find that my arms now rest at the same position, with 1 on the door panel and 1 on the armrest. It really is how the car should have come from the factory. You shifting hand will thank you as well, trust me. The position is much more natural.

Hawkeye · 04-01-2008, 10:08 AM

If you are more for storage than cosmetics it seems like a good purchase. I personally don't like how it looks though.

If you are looking for some extra storage there are a couple people that have installed under-seat storage. I think it is called the European Medical storage kit or something, I will look for it and post it later if you'd like.

inTgr8r · 04-01-2008, 10:28 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Reach

Its fantastic, and you should order it without hesitation. It is designed so that it clears the BMW assist box. The rear of the armrest is just in front of the lift flap for the BMW assist buttons, you'll be fine.

I find that my arms now rest at the same position, with 1 on the door panel and 1 on the armrest. It really is how the car should have come from the factory. You shifting hand will thank you as well, trust me. The position is much more natural.

I disagree completely.....
I'm sure it's a great product based on their rep.
But not everyone drives while leaning on an arm rest.
I much prefer the elbow room, especially when driving aggressively & at the track.
In fact I wish I could get rid of the armrest on the door card.

Reach · 04-01-2008, 02:03 PM

Seriously? I found myself straining my right shoulder to keep my arm in a level shifting spot until I installed this.

I have to (respectfully) but COMPLETELY disagree with the above sentiments. I think it looks great and balances out the arm level.

inTgr8r · 04-01-2008, 02:33 PM

No question, that it looks great!

Its probably related to my build, but the height of the OE center console is perfect for me.
I have to have the seat almost at the bottom.
Since the console is fixed position, the relative height to seat position is different for some people.

Reach · 04-01-2008, 07:17 PM

True, I'm sure that makes some difference. I'm a big guy at 6'5", so my seats are all the way down and back and my shoulders are far above wheel level, even though I've brought the wheel all the way up. This lessens the reach distance and is very comfortable for me. There, hope that diplomatic enough.

YMMV and some such.

PS> 'Reach' is my nick in real life... what all my friends call me. Imagine why.

inTgr8r · 04-01-2008, 07:57 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Reach

True, I'm sure that makes some difference. I'm a big guy at 6'5", so my seats are all the way down and back and my shoulders are far above wheel level, even though I've brought the wheel all the way up. This lessens the reach distance and is very comfortable for me. There, hope that diplomatic enough.

YMMV and some such.

PS> 'Reach' is my nick in real life... what all my friends call me. Imagine why.

LOL....

Leather Z do make great products....
I know I've dropped a little coin with them

Burt Reynolds · 04-01-2008, 08:45 PM

Thanks for the info everyone. I am 6'1" and have my seat at the bottom. The current center seems about right for me but it is hard to imagine the center console...

I am still 50/50 at this point. I used to have an armrest in my 2004 Audi S4, and I flipped it up all the time b/c it got in my way during shifts...that is my only concern...

If you find the underseat storage, let me know!

Thanks again all!

Hawkeye · 04-01-2008, 10:57 PM

haha, I didn't realize this before but LeatherZ actually sells them as well

http://leatherz.com/Merchant2/mercha..._Code=Interior

I think you could find them at Tisher if you looked but this is what I was thinking of.

oh, and ps. inTgr8r has them installed, ask him how they are

Rick Hunter · 04-02-2008, 02:35 AM

http://www.zpost.com/forums/showthread.php?t=94739

52-10-7-044-958 First Aid Box
52-10-7-045-018 First Aid Box Holder

I ordered through Tischer, and installed them myself. Didn't look like there was any room under the seat, but there actually was!

Zeddy4Me · 04-02-2008, 03:30 AM

Wonder if LeatherZ still sells the "limited edition" M stripe armrest/storagebox. Anyone know?

takedown8 · 04-02-2008, 08:04 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Zeddy4Me

Wonder if LeatherZ still sells the "limited edition" M stripe armrest/storagebox. Anyone know?

Are you sure you want it? I remember seeing them selling it and thinking, "Blah!". Kinda like the //M striped cars.

inTgr8r · 04-02-2008, 08:13 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Hawkeye

haha, I didn't realize this before but LeatherZ actually sells them as well

http://leatherz.com/Merchant2/mercha..._Code=Interior

I think you could find them at Tisher if you looked but this is what I was thinking of.

oh, and ps. inTgr8r has them installed, ask him how they are

Yes I have them installed under both seats.
It's about a 5 min job to put them in.

They're not huge, but it really helps with some much needed storage space.

Got mine from LeatherZ

Reach · 04-02-2008, 09:24 AM

Just FYI, the best price I know of is you can get two of them for $39.93 shipped from BMW of North Haven (www.bmwpartzdirect.com) just put in the part #s from above.

Black///Mamba · 04-02-2008, 10:21 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Rick Hunter

http://www.zpost.com/forums/showthread.php?t=94739

52-10-7-044-958 First Aid Box
52-10-7-045-018 First Aid Box Holder

I ordered through Tischer, and installed them myself. Didn't look like there was any room under the seat, but there actually was!

wohoo! thank you so much! the first aid boxs are on the way.

rosierobins2003 · 04-02-2008, 11:31 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by inTgr8r

No question, that it looks great!

Its probably related to my build, but the height of the OE center console is perfect for me.
I have to have the seat almost at the bottom.
Since the console is fixed position, the relative height to seat position is different for some people.

OE center console? Its an add on, or am I misunderstanding what you are discussing?

I love my add on center arm rest. The leather matches that of the interior perfectly and it does give a bit more storage. Definitely a winner in my book.

Rosie

inTgr8r · 04-02-2008, 11:42 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by rosierobins2003

OE center console? Its an add on, or am I misunderstanding what you are discussing?

I love my add on center arm rest. The leather matches that of the interior perfectly and it does give a bit more storage. Definitely a winner in my book.

Rosie

OE = Original Equipment
I can't use the add on from LeatherZ..... just not enough elbow room.
If I installed one, my right shoulder would be in my ear.

takedown8 · 04-02-2008, 01:22 PM

Does having the first aid box under the seat prevent you from lowering the seats to their lowest?

jarrow · 04-02-2008, 03:00 PM

Nope

Santa Fe Roadster · 04-09-2008, 12:59 AM

1st, ALL Z4s should come from the factory, or at least the dealership, with the European first aid boxes/storage boxes. They are invaluable storage in a roadster with no storage.

2nd, even with the storage under the seats, I am thrilled with the center armrest/storage from LeatherZ. Although it does make the cabin seem a bit more snug, combined with the door armrest leather pads from LeatherZ, my arms rest at a very comfortable (and balanced) position now. Highly recommend them!

The Z is a roadster after all. Snug and ergonomically designed for spirited driving. If you want more room, buy a 5 series.

Rustycat · 09-04-2010, 02:41 PM

I just ordered and had delivery on the Leatherz armrest. I must say I think the fit and finish for $115 is absolutely beyond reproach. Although many owners point out the attributes of having the armrest up higher, I'm still unsure if I find that a benefit, but I'm absolutely over the top on the added and easy access stowage compartment. I find I can but my sunglass case, a checkbook and eyedrops in there, whereas they were always problematic in the waterfall console storage. I highly recommend it.
BTW, I've had the underseat firstaid storage boxes and found them of little use.

03-30-2008, 08:24 PM	#1
Burt Reynolds Captain 53 Rep 689 Posts Drives: 2007 M Coupe Join Date: Mar 2008 Location: Windy City iTrader: (0)	LeatherZ Armrest Hi, I just picked up my Z Coupeon Saturday and am surprised how little storage there is - tiny glovebox that will hold 2 bills layed out perfectly flat, 2 cubbies near the navigation DVD. Now the LeatherZ armrest is sound pretty good for the added storage but I have questions- 1. I have the BMW assist (like Onstar- no idea what it is called in BMW) buttons on the center console behind the park brake. How will I access with the LeatherZ???? 2. I wonder if my elbow will feel like it is to high with the armrest? It feels pretty good right now. Thats it- BR
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03-30-2008, 10:18 PM	#2
Reach gone baby gone 382 Rep 1,052 Posts Drives: 2016 F80 Join Date: Nov 2007 Location: Location, Location. iTrader: (0)	Its fantastic, and you should order it without hesitation. It is designed so that it clears the BMW assist box. The rear of the armrest is just in front of the lift flap for the BMW assist buttons, you'll be fine. I find that my arms now rest at the same position, with 1 on the door panel and 1 on the armrest. It really is how the car should have come from the factory. You shifting hand will thank you as well, trust me. The position is much more natural.
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04-01-2008, 10:08 AM	#3
Hawkeye Brigadier General 2070 Rep 4,365 Posts Drives: '07 Z4 Coupe, '21 X3, '16 GMC Join Date: Aug 2007 Location: Iowa iTrader: (0) Garage List 2016 GMC Sierra SLT [10.00] 2008 Yamaha R6 [9.00]	If you are more for storage than cosmetics it seems like a good purchase. I personally don't like how it looks though. If you are looking for some extra storage there are a couple people that have installed under-seat storage. I think it is called the European Medical storage kit or something, I will look for it and post it later if you'd like. __________________ 2007 Z4 3.0si Coupe • 6 MT • Black Saphire Metallic • PP • SP 2016 GMC Sierra SLT Z71 Premium Plus 4x4 2017 Harley StreetGlide • Denim Black • V&H Tune 2021 BMW x30i • Phytonic Blue Metallic • Fully loaded
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04-01-2008, 02:03 PM	#5
Reach gone baby gone 382 Rep 1,052 Posts Drives: 2016 F80 Join Date: Nov 2007 Location: Location, Location. iTrader: (0)	Seriously? I found myself straining my right shoulder to keep my arm in a level shifting spot until I installed this. I have to (respectfully) but COMPLETELY disagree with the above sentiments. I think it looks great and balances out the arm level.
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04-01-2008, 02:33 PM	#6
inTgr8r Lieutenant General 2426 Rep 11,667 Posts Drives: M2 Comp Join Date: Mar 2006 Location: Toronto iTrader: (10)	No question, that it looks great! Its probably related to my build, but the height of the OE center console is perfect for me. I have to have the seat almost at the bottom. Since the console is fixed position, the relative height to seat position is different for some people. __________________ '21 M2C Hockenheim Silver '18 718 Cayman S Lava Orange (sold) '13 E92 M3 Santorini Blue (sold) '07 Z4 M Coupe Alpine White (sold)
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04-01-2008, 07:17 PM	#7
Reach gone baby gone 382 Rep 1,052 Posts Drives: 2016 F80 Join Date: Nov 2007 Location: Location, Location. iTrader: (0)	True, I'm sure that makes some difference. I'm a big guy at 6'5", so my seats are all the way down and back and my shoulders are far above wheel level, even though I've brought the wheel all the way up. This lessens the reach distance and is very comfortable for me. There, hope that diplomatic enough. YMMV and some such. PS> 'Reach' is my nick in real life... what all my friends call me. Imagine why.
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04-01-2008, 08:45 PM	#9
Burt Reynolds Captain 53 Rep 689 Posts Drives: 2007 M Coupe Join Date: Mar 2008 Location: Windy City iTrader: (0)	Thanks for the info everyone. I am 6'1" and have my seat at the bottom. The current center seems about right for me but it is hard to imagine the center console... I am still 50/50 at this point. I used to have an armrest in my 2004 Audi S4, and I flipped it up all the time b/c it got in my way during shifts...that is my only concern... If you find the underseat storage, let me know! Thanks again all! Last edited by Burt Reynolds; 04-04-2008 at 09:31 AM..
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04-01-2008, 10:57 PM	#10
Hawkeye Brigadier General 2070 Rep 4,365 Posts Drives: '07 Z4 Coupe, '21 X3, '16 GMC Join Date: Aug 2007 Location: Iowa iTrader: (0) Garage List 2016 GMC Sierra SLT [10.00] 2008 Yamaha R6 [9.00]	haha, I didn't realize this before but LeatherZ actually sells them as well http://leatherz.com/Merchant2/mercha..._Code=Interior I think you could find them at Tisher if you looked but this is what I was thinking of. oh, and ps. inTgr8r has them installed, ask him how they are __________________ 2007 Z4 3.0si Coupe • 6 MT • Black Saphire Metallic • PP • SP 2016 GMC Sierra SLT Z71 Premium Plus 4x4 2017 Harley StreetGlide • Denim Black • V&H Tune 2021 BMW x30i • Phytonic Blue Metallic • Fully loaded
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04-02-2008, 02:35 AM	#11
Rick Hunter Skull Squadron Leader 304 Rep 2,031 Posts Drives: '07 M Coupé & '16 435xi GCoupé Join Date: May 2007 Location: The Emerald City iTrader: (20)	http://www.zpost.com/forums/showthread.php?t=94739 52-10-7-044-958 First Aid Box 52-10-7-045-018 First Aid Box Holder I ordered through Tischer, and installed them myself. Didn't look like there was any room under the seat, but there actually was! __________________
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04-02-2008, 03:30 AM	#12
Zeddy4Me Lieutenant 23 Rep 442 Posts Drives: 09, AW E90 M3 6MT Join Date: Dec 2007 Location: OC, CA iTrader: (2)	Wonder if LeatherZ still sells the "limited edition" M stripe armrest/storagebox. Anyone know? __________________
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04-02-2008, 09:24 AM	#15
Reach gone baby gone 382 Rep 1,052 Posts Drives: 2016 F80 Join Date: Nov 2007 Location: Location, Location. iTrader: (0)	Just FYI, the best price I know of is you can get two of them for $39.93 shipped from BMW of North Haven (www.bmwpartzdirect.com) just put in the part #s from above.
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04-02-2008, 01:22 PM	#19
takedown8 Major 56 Rep 1,068 Posts Drives: 2005 BMW Z4 3.0i Join Date: May 2007 Location: Seattle, WA iTrader: (0)	Does having the first aid box under the seat prevent you from lowering the seats to their lowest?
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04-02-2008, 03:00 PM	#20
jarrow Private First Class 6 Rep 150 Posts Drives: 2004 Z4 3.0i Join Date: May 2007 Location: Webster, NY iTrader: (5) Garage List 2004 z4 3.0i [2.00]	Nope
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04-09-2008, 12:59 AM	#21
Santa Fe Roadster Member 7 Rep 76 Posts Drives: 2003 Z4 2.5 Sport Join Date: Nov 2007 Location: Santa Fe, NM iTrader: (0) Garage List 2003 Z4 2.5i sport [7.00]	1st, ALL Z4s should come from the factory, or at least the dealership, with the European first aid boxes/storage boxes. They are invaluable storage in a roadster with no storage. 2nd, even with the storage under the seats, I am thrilled with the center armrest/storage from LeatherZ. Although it does make the cabin seem a bit more snug, combined with the door armrest leather pads from LeatherZ, my arms rest at a very comfortable (and balanced) position now. Highly recommend them! The Z is a roadster after all. Snug and ergonomically designed for spirited driving. If you want more room, buy a 5 series. __________________ BMW rear spoiler - de-badged - MTEC HIDs (DEFECTIVE) - XENESIS high beams & fogs - shadowline front grill - 20% tint - keyhole plugs - Roadster Solutions acrylic wind deflector - LeatherZ center console & door arm rests - Parrot 3100 bluetooth - USA SPEC IPod integration - Xenon interior lighting
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09-04-2010, 02:41 PM	#22
Rustycat Private First Class 17 Rep 141 Posts Drives: z4mc Join Date: Jun 2009 Location: usa iTrader: (0)	I just ordered and had delivery on the Leatherz armrest. I must say I think the fit and finish for $115 is absolutely beyond reproach. Although many owners point out the attributes of having the armrest up higher, I'm still unsure if I find that a benefit, but I'm absolutely over the top on the added and easy access stowage compartment. I find I can but my sunglass case, a checkbook and eyedrops in there, whereas they were always problematic in the waterfall console storage. I highly recommend it. BTW, I've had the underseat firstaid storage boxes and found them of little use.
	Appreciate 0 Quote