As you with 2012 CMs know, MINI (thankfully) replaced the grab handle on the driver's side with a lateral sun visor like the other MINIs. Since the ceiling has the same cutout on the passenger side, you can add a second one if you really like your co-pilot. The part is the same as the one on the driver's side. It's really easy and shouldn't take more than 5 minutes. In fact, a how-to is probably overkill, but I took pictures anyway.

Tools needed:
T25 Torx socket/screwdriver
Small flathead screwdriver

Part numbers (Grey listed for anyone with a pre-2011 R56/R55/R57):
Beige, sunroof: 51167266606
Beige, no sunroof: 51167266605
Anthracite, sunroof: 51162753585
Anthracite, no sunroof: 51162753551
Grey, sunroof: 51162753586
Grey, no sunroof: 51162753552

New visor & tools:


Before:


Use the flathead screwdriver to gently pry back the little door that covers the two screws holding the handle on:


When you open the little door all the way, it will prop the handle open so you can get to the screws. Use the T25 socket/screwdriver to remove the two screws:


Ready for the visor:


Done!


With visor up:

 

Thanks for posting. I had asked the parts dept for the part numbers. I have a beige ceiling with sunroof...appreciate the #'s. Any idea why the number is different for sunroof versus no sunroof? Is the visor smaller on sunroof equipped vehicles?

 

Great little mod. I think I'll do this. How much did the visor cost?

 

No clue why the parts are different if you have a sunroof. It seems like it would have been preferable for MINI to use the same part to save money.

The visor was about $80 at my dealership, but you may do better. I know part prices differ a lot from dealer to dealer. I also checked some local auto salvage lots, but didn't find any MINIs.

 

anyone try a retrofit on the 2011 driver side? the cutout looks different, but still might be worth doing...

 

Yeah, there's a thread about the 2011s. It's not the most attractive thing, but it works.

https://www.northamericanmotoring.co...sunvisors.html

 

To those with a 2011, the headliner is different and will not fit.

 

I have just done this and am very pleased. The part came to £48 here in the UK and it was surprisingly easy to do.

Chrunck - many thanks for the clear description!

 

Now that's a cool frickin' idea!!! Might have to try this mod out! Thanks!

 

Very cool, makes sense to have that on the passenger side as well. Might have to do that to mine.

 

You can also adapt a sunglass holder from the VW Passat on the driver side.

 

If anybody wants a light colored visor, message me. I replaced my driver's side visor with a handle.