I've been the look of the aero kit grill for a while but wasn't crazy about the fact that it had to be modified if I wanted it to work. So I ended up getting this grill kit from outmotoring that apparently doesn't need any work done to it in order for it to fit.

http://www.outmotoring.com/mini-coop...rsion_kit.html

As far as installation goes I figure I shouldn't have any issues removing and installing the upper grill. What I'm not sure of is what is involved in replacing the lower grill. What exactly is holding the lower grill on? Screws or just clips? If its the latter do I even need to remove my front bumper? I'd rather not if I don't have to!

 

The bottom chrome piece is simply held on with tabs that have a bit of glue that you might have to slice to get off. It is very simply to remove. That kit has a piece that is designed to fit so it should be pretty easy to do.

 

as mentioned in the descrition of the grill you are considering the lower piece is 'held' by double sided tape and in my experience (having done several AERO grill mods for folks) it is STRONG tape. You can get the old pieces off from the front but need to be very careful that you don't scratch anything which is EASY to do.

By taking the bumper cover off, and laying it on a padded surface (folded blanket) you can work this problem from the backside and push the old piece away from the bumper cover and if you slip you scratch the BACK of the bumper ... who cares? I use heat to soften the glue and work from the back and have never messed up a bumper in the process yet.

The mods needed to the lower Aero piece and the bumper cover itself are not that difficult if you have a Dremel. I prefer the Aero grill myself.

 

Mine didn't have double sided tape, it was just a dab of hot melt glue.

 

Thanks for the info guys! Its good to know its not necessary to remove the bumper. I do prefer the mesh pattern of the aero grill myself, I just wasn't sure the exact amount of work it entailed and thought I'd get something that just fit to begin with. Having said the lower grill is just held on by glue/double sided tape, what would be the preferred way of removal if I don't want to damage it and decide to leave the bumper on?

 

It's a great looking grille! BTW, that's my red car in the advert

 

Looks good man. That picture is why I bought it!

How do you like it? has it held up well in the time you've had it?

 

the grills in the bumpers are held on via industrial epoxy, and some basic clips (the "clips" are epoxied to the bumper from the inside). simply remove the bumper (quite easy actually, its basically just hanging on the car (which i found disappointing)) and pry off the glue. press the grills outwards. done.

i plan on doing this this very weekend actually, im fixing to paint my grills shiny black, then clear coat them with poly urethane. i will document for all to see!

 

Holding up just fine. I live about 4 miles from Outmotoring. Aaron is a great guy and a pleasure to deal with! I've received many positive comments. The hardest part of the install was removing the double sided tape from the bumper that held on the lower grille.