Are the factory bonnet stripes vinyl just like the after-market stripes you can get at places like aesthetic creations and others?

I assume the optional stripes on the miniUSA site, the racing stripes that are dealer installed accessories, are just vinyl that the dealer slaps on.

I'm worried about the long-term look of the stripes --- between factory, dealer-installed and after-market if there's a big difference.

For example, how long they are expected to last? If you wish to change them how long can you go before you worry about noticing color variations where the old stripes used to be?

Just wondering, thanks in advance.

 

Well being/having been an owner of both factory, dealer and aftermarket stripes, hopefully I can help you out a bit.

My first MINI had its bonnet stripes installed directly at the factory, as I opted for the sport package and it includes them. I purchased my current MINI off the lot and it doesn't have the sport package nor came with bonnet stripes. I personally love the look and almost find it to be a necessity, so I had my dealer install them before I took delivery of the car. Perfect job, I honestly cannot tell any difference from my original MINI with the factory stripes.

Also had a pair of boot stripes from Aesthetic Creations put on my MINI to match the front ones. No perceivable difference in quality or look whatsoever. Keep in mind, however that a lot of this has much more to do with the installer than the product. My dealer did an awesome job with the bonnet stripes and my installer (didn't trust myself to do it) did an equaliing amazing job with the boot stripes.

Answering the other part of your question. The dealer guarantees factory and dealer installed stripes while your MINI is under warranty. I've actually heard multiple cases of them replacing bonnet stripes just because of a stubborn water stain which the owner complained about. As far as the aftermarket, AC's stripes are made with 5 year performance vinyl. Can't comment on any other vendor as they're the only ones I have experience with.

Here's an excerpt directly from the AC site which you'll probably find interesting:

Pinstriped stripes are one piece with a printed edge and are the same or better than factory printed stripes.

They are cut to fit the OEM style stripe from the manufacturer, therefore they will be about 1/8" short from the edge of the bonnet on either side.


Best of luck!

 

Ok that helps. Thanks.

Is there any reason to be concerned about pain problems, for example, going with bonnet stripes for a few years then going to a driver's edge set?

I know it's not an accurate comparison but I've seen Japanese and domestic compact cars with vinyl ghosts-- either from wax buildup near the previous design or the paint looking "new" where the old vinyl graphic was. I suppose that's on them for not taking care of the paint and stripes.

 

You're welcome.

That last question I can't really comment on as the MINI is my first car (with stripes or otherwise) and I've only had it for 3 months. I can see potential issues with the paint that was under the stripes, and therefore not exposed to the elements, looking somewhat different from the paint on the rest of the hood. However that'd be really far down the line and I don't plan to remove my stripes at all, except in the case of a direct replacement.

 

Hi exile,
Regardless of stripe source over time you'll likely see some differential wear/ fade. But fear not, a little quality buffer time will make it all better. I don't see any mention of your MINI or it's color; CR would be the only color that I would have any concern about. Reds tend to fade faster than other colors.
Best of luck in your decision, and let us know how it turns out!