My SO found a vendor in the UK that sells surface protectors for the CM hatch opening. Reasonable price, but outrageous shipping. They gave him the name of the manufacturer - - -

http://www.rearguards.co.uk/index.php

- - - who has a US distributer (in Aberdeen, MD) - - -

http://www.ngpracing.com/store/index...tegory_id=1504

They do not carry the CM as a regular item, but will place an order with the UK when they get a minimum of 10 orders. Price will be around $89, shipping is based on how many orders they get. They did say it would be "reasonable". We placed our order, number 4. If anyone else wants to join in, you can contact them:

info@ngpracing.com or 1.877.GERMAN.1 (if you get the information from the Web, use the Aberdeen location.)

 

Is that a sticker or plastic?

 

Did you check the mfg web page?

 

I'm definitely piqued. I was just thinking today that I wanted some kind of rear bumper guard for the dogs, and that looks nice. Does MINI offer no OEM version? Or is it just crazy expensive?

And how does it install? I'm not a very ambitious self-modder.

 

I haven't seen anything from MINI and I imagine it's pretty standard peel and stick.

 

Local graphics installer Todd ( of Motoring File Badges ) now has the material to do this. Believe that somone posted that Asethic Creations did his bumper. Check with either one about sending a pre-cut kit.
I think Todd's is about $80-90 installed and is going to AMVIV next week. Check that thread for details.

 

I'm in for one if the price doesn't end up being too outlandish...

 

Looks similar to the boot protector from Aesthetic Creations.

 

First, the disclaimer: I have no hidden interest in any of these companies beyond the fact that I own a CM and they sell stuff for the CM.

I tried the Aesthetic product. It's a very nice, heavy vinyl, slightly texured product. Current product will not work with park distance unless you do some custom razor work. They are working on version two to allow for the sensors and will be updating the web site. It arrives rolled up and it applies just like vinyl stripes.

The UK product, if you check the web site, is molded and applies with two-sided tape. It would appear to be more like what you would expect from OEM. I have not seen the product, but I'm guessing it's a good bit heavier and would ship in a long, flat box.

Either of them would probable do the job and I'm not bad-mouthing or promoting either product. I just posted this to let you all know about the UK item and, hopefully, get mine here a little earlier.

 

As a NYC driver, who can (ahem) still turn around on occasion, I would be interested the version that does not interfere with my park assist feature. Please post and count me in if it becomes it becomes available...

 

Per post, you need to contact the US vendor and order. When they get the minimum number of orders, they place the order with the UK.

 

I'll be ordering one if we keep the CM4m I'm picking up today...but, do they come in PO for you?

 

Hrm, I am confused. When I look at the sight it looks like the guard has some dimension as well as (on the cooper one at least) a lip that attaches to the existing bolts.

So is it a thin vynal or thick rubber? That sways my decision.

 

The site says it's ABS plastic, which is a hard, molded plastic not like rubber.

 

I'm going with basic, slimming black. CMs need something to offset their wide butts.

 

Hey Sealey or anyone....how does this rear bumper guard interfere withthe park assist? I thought the sensors were facing the rear, rather than on the
the top lip...?

What kind of razor work were you referring to? On the top lip? Pls explain, as I'm not above a little razor work...but I'd like to get a better idea.

Thnks

 

Aesthetic Creation guard covers the top on the bumper and has a inch or so flap that folds down onto the bumper face as an edge guard. It's wide enough that it covers about half of the sensor. You can trim out a half -circle now or wait for them to do the new template. They seem to be resposive, so it should not be long.

UK unit, from the picture, has a narrower lip and shows it's OK with the sensors.

 

Excellent observation - you sound as skilled as the product specialists who present the cars at the Detroit Auto Show.

 

I spent quite a bit of time with a heat gun trying to remove the sticky stuff left behind when I peeled one of these off my WRX. I like them in theory, but in practice, I don't like how they look at all, and I can't imagine that for $89, you're getting OEM quality.

I might capitulate once I get a scratch or two back there (which will, of course, be my wife's doing, and not my own!) but for now, I have to pass.

Good find though, for those who are interested.

Cheers,
Tad

 

I just installed clear paint protection film from XPEL. I've ordered from them previously and the fit was perfect. They offer with and without parking sensors for $39.95:

XPEL Countryman Product Page

Here's a picture of the finished product…but you can't see anything, which is good. The film wraps the edge down to the top of the license plate cutout. I've worked with this film before, but this is as easy an application as you'll find.

Hope this helps.

John

 

I can't see your parking sensors at all. OK, this is one more option to consider. As much as I liked the Asthetic product, I do need something a wee bit sturdier. Four dog x 4 paws x 4 nails per paw = 64 pawcibilities for damage. A little black accent is just a bonus.

Thanks for the input.

 

Whew! I thought it was Sealy's PO!

 

Sorry for the confusion. I don't have sensors. I just posted about XPEL as an option for those who do.

John

 

Then why did you order the product for CMs with sensors?

On another note, NGP Racing is now listing them for order on their web site. Y'all can take all your questions to them.

 

The one from Aesthetic Creations is great...I had it installed at the Dragon.