Hi guys,

I recently purchased my mini and really wanted the chrome line interior. However, the car (which was already configured at the dealer) didn't have this option. So, i'm wondering if a chrome interior retrofit is EASILY possible?

Otherwise, I've done some searching online and have seen some non-OEM pieces that simply stick on with adhesive. I'm a bit hesitant to go this route as i'd like to keep everything as OEM looking as possible and using high-quality mini parts.

Thanks in advance.

 

All the trim pieces are quite easy to swap - I've gone from alloy patina to anthracite on my '04.
email bmwparts@classicautocampus.com (Classic MINI in Ohio) for a quote on the parts - tell 'em you're with NAM and get 20% off.

 

OEM should be cheaper and the only peice you have to get after market is the one for the tach. So you should get it from Classic.


Art

 

Gabe did a write up on Motoringfile that you may find useful.

Here's a link:

http://motoringfile.com/2005/02/24/o..._retrofit_kit/


Rawhyde

 

Get the parts from Classic - they were 1/3 of what my local dealer wanted. But the $75 kits from ebay are pretty good quality.

 

I would definitely say go for the OEM, very easy to install.

 

I did OEM for the cup holders, gearshift, and speedo & AC rings and then used the ebay stick-on stuff for everything that didn't come in OEM chrome, like the door handles, switch rings, etc. I would say that the quality is comparable.

 

Thanks for all your help guys! I'm so glad to hear that the chrome line interior is possible - especially since people have stated that it's a quick install.

I seem to be terrible at anything to do with replacing interior bits (I always seem to scratch or break something). Are there any detailed instructions out there?

Thanks in advance!

 

No instructions that I know of. It's pretty simple - just look at the part you're about to do the replacing with to see how the current one is attached.
Most are just a snap fit, but the middle air registers require a twist to remove them.

 

Look at my earlier post and refer to the link. On that page is a pdf that you may find useful.

Rawhyde