I'm installing the MINI sport stripes - thought I would attempt it myself. I started with the boot stripes since they were smaller and partially covered by the license plate - I thought this would give me a little margin for error as I learned the process.

I ordered these through MINI since they were designated as no cutting - perfect fit. Well, the top stripes that goes around the MINI logo on the boot are too long - am I expected to cut this? Or should I remove the light unit above the license plate to install the stripes? If thats the case does anyone know what size and type screw that is?

Thanks! Would love to get this project wrapped up this weekend.

 

Best to remove the boot handle and license plate/bracket before installing the stripes and run it behind it. Along with that comes lots of cleaning in that area before laying the vinyl.

The scews on the R53 which hold the handle assembly to the boot are star screws. Most drill packs have the bits to remove them along with the usual drill bits. Usually an assortment but always one in there which fits. ( not sure size off hand )

 

Thanks - I removed the license plate and bracket - wasn't expecting to remove the boot handle. Wish me luck!

 

Take a look at these instructions...this makes it really simple!

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

 

Thanks - I actually read those instructions several times before starting the project. Apparently the bonnet stripes (hood only) are a bit more straightforward than the racing stripes (hood and hatch). I wasn't planning on having to remove any body parts to get this done. Hopefully it will turn out OK.

 

Hi , how did your stripe install go ? , i'm going to be doing it myself next week , i also ordered a sport stripe kit from mini ..

 

The stripes turned out great. I was so scared of this project, but I only paid around $70 for the stripes and I figured even if I messed it up the first time I could always try again and still come in cheaper than what the dealer would charge.

I was not planning on having to remove the trim piece over the license plate or the hood scoop, but it was not hard and I didn't break anything. You will need a #20 torx screwdriver to remove the trim piece over the license plate. The hood scoop comes off with a Philips head screwdriver and a needle nose pliers - have those on hand. In fact, I would go ahead and remove those pieces up front and clean really good around those areas.

I used a clay bar to remove any contaminants from the paint and washed the whole area really good with Dawn dishwashing liquid prior to application.

There were a few tiny air bubbles on the rear stripes - those went away within 1-2 weeks. I did a better job with the application of the front stripes and there were virtually no bubbles. For the front I bought a better squeegee and took my time. I purchased a squeegee at a local auto parts store - it was intended for window tint application but it worked great for the stripes.

I was so cautious with this project, but it totally gave me the confidence to change the stripes out myself when I'm ready for something different. I may go with some custom stripes next time.

I'll post pics soon. If you have any questions feel free to ask. Good luck with your stripes! I know you will be happy with them.

 

Thanks for the tips ,my biggest concern is removing the stripes that are already on the car , they are the basic stripes and are showung their age , i was advised to warm them up with a heat gun and take my time peeling them off , i should get to it one day next week and i will post a picture when im done , thanks once again and have a great weekend.. jamie.

 

i'm about to do this. what is the spacing that everyone uses between the stripes? i think i'm going to order 2 5" stripes witha 2" gap?

 

setup up your hood stripes in the front on your emblem below the scoop. make it pretty to your eyes then use the gap you made for the rest of the stirpes

 

Great ideas....but I want to REMOVE my stripes and go naked for a while. They're getting a little ragged. Does anyone know how to take them off??

 

Heard use a hair dryer.

 

Heat them up and lift with a "stretching out" motion. This will leave the least amount of adhesive behind. Works the same at the 3M command hook system.

 

But the adhesive will clean up and buff out? I hope?

 

The adhesive will come off with Goo-Gone and LOTS of rubbing.

 

Wow, its THAT bad? It won't damage?