BMWdiy.INFO
E39 Pre-2001 Color-Matched Trim
Prepared by VietSB
Modified 07.21.03


NOTE: Perform these steps at your own risk. All P/N's listed are a "best guess", so please double-check with your local dealer. These mods and repairs were performed on my US-Spec 1997 540iA (11/96 prod date, M62 engine) but there is no guarantee they will work on other E39's. These instructions are provided for entertainment purposes only!


BACKGROUND: Some simple notes on my upgrade to color-matched trim. My parts selection was somewhat unorthodox because I started with trying to paint my original chromeline trim, but when the fender and door moldings turned out bad, I switched gears and purchased 2001+ primered door moldings (no chrome) and pieced this project together. In trying to reuse my chromeline trim, I replaced two of the front chrome strips that had small dents in them.

The dealer might offer some of these pieces pre-painted via special order. If going that route, it would be best to order all the new trim to be painted by the dealer for color-matching purposes. As your dealer parts counter for more information on this.


Parts purchased for my E39 (yours will probably differ):
Removal: Painting existing chromeline trim (pre-2001): Painting existing shadowline trim (pre-2001): Painting new trim (installed on pre-2001): I've heard from Tyrone and a number of other posters that standard painting of the PDC sensors is okay. I left mine black for now, but will probably have them painted sooner or later.

Here's my Frankenstein car w/ filled and painted chromeline front and rear, but fully-painted sides.


Questions? Comments? E-mail me: .

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