is it just me being retarded or is it completely impossible to remove the front grill !!!

I have looked at all related threads and pictures but still can't do it.
Does any1 have a clear description with pictures of how to remove it

oh and btw i am not new to removing trims on the mini and other cars loll

thx

 

any1 ???

 

I purchased the JCW replacement for the upper grill on my '03. Seemed that the lower grill required cutting and abusing.

Read that it was a simple removal process but I had a devil of a time removing the metal nuts that hold the upper grill in place. Finally, decided on a pair of small visegrips to get good purchase on the nuts. Unfortunately, removal of the nuts also destroyed the plastic nipple that they are located on.

So, the original grill if re-used will require a new fastening method.

The replacement grill did fit perfectly and I was able to reuse the nasty little
original nuts but again was a pain to get them on but was a able to force them into place again with my trusty vice grips.

Hope this helps? Check my gallery for the finished product. If you require more info let me know.

 

i tried and tried but ended up just clipping off those plastic bolts and expoxying it when i reinstalled it

 

I couldn't get the self tapping nuts off the plastic grill part without breaking the plastic, so I broke the plastic. I wedged a flat screwdriver behind them, and popped the nut off. I lost a few as they went flying, so be careful. I managed to install my Aero grill with several missing and it doesn't rattle or move. If you don't need to reuse the OEM grille, don't worry about breaking the plastics.