Interior/Exterior MINI Cooper spoiler installed
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2nd Gear
Joined: May 2002
Posts: 128
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From: Honolulu, HI
I picked up a MINI Cooper spoiler from the local dealer yesterday and installed it last night. I just thought I would share some info/lessons learned.
First of all, it looks great once installed! I was a little skeptical at first, but seeing one installed at the MINI dealership convinced me.
When buying the spoiler, make sure to check the spoiler for damage before leaving the dealership. I got home, and the end was broken off on one side. Fortunately, BMW exchanged it for a good one, no questions asked. Also, make sure to purchase teh install kit at the same time. The spoiler is $270 and the install kit is $18. It includes benzene to clean the contact surfaces and the adhesive. By the way, BMW had the spoilers in stock, so ordering may not be required.
Prior to starting the install, obtain directions by downloading them from the MiniMania website. Instructions are not included, and you probably don't want to risk installing it wrong, as it will certainly deface the MINI if you have to remove the spoiler or glue.
Plan on not moving your car for 6 hours per the MINI instructions. The instructions also say to tape the spoiler in place for 6 hours. I found that if you can find a patient individual to hold the spoiler in place for about an hour, the adhesive will have hardened to a point that further holding is not required. I suggest grabbing a magazine, since after about 30 minutes, it only takes the support of one finger on the spoiler. I let mine sit overnight, and it was just fine. Initially though, the adhesive slips and slides quite a bit, so you may want to use masking tape instead of physically holding it in place.
That's about it. Installation is as simple as pie. I'll post photos in the next few days. And one more thing. If you plan on buying this or any other parts from BMW, I suggest joining the BMW Car Club of America. Your membership card is good for 20% off all parts, and you get all the other benefits of membership too. I saved $30 on this project alone, bringing membership dues down to $5. And once the JCW kit becomes available, you can bet that I'll be buying that through the BMW dealer!
Jason
First of all, it looks great once installed! I was a little skeptical at first, but seeing one installed at the MINI dealership convinced me.
When buying the spoiler, make sure to check the spoiler for damage before leaving the dealership. I got home, and the end was broken off on one side. Fortunately, BMW exchanged it for a good one, no questions asked. Also, make sure to purchase teh install kit at the same time. The spoiler is $270 and the install kit is $18. It includes benzene to clean the contact surfaces and the adhesive. By the way, BMW had the spoilers in stock, so ordering may not be required.
Prior to starting the install, obtain directions by downloading them from the MiniMania website. Instructions are not included, and you probably don't want to risk installing it wrong, as it will certainly deface the MINI if you have to remove the spoiler or glue.
Plan on not moving your car for 6 hours per the MINI instructions. The instructions also say to tape the spoiler in place for 6 hours. I found that if you can find a patient individual to hold the spoiler in place for about an hour, the adhesive will have hardened to a point that further holding is not required. I suggest grabbing a magazine, since after about 30 minutes, it only takes the support of one finger on the spoiler. I let mine sit overnight, and it was just fine. Initially though, the adhesive slips and slides quite a bit, so you may want to use masking tape instead of physically holding it in place.
That's about it. Installation is as simple as pie. I'll post photos in the next few days. And one more thing. If you plan on buying this or any other parts from BMW, I suggest joining the BMW Car Club of America. Your membership card is good for 20% off all parts, and you get all the other benefits of membership too. I saved $30 on this project alone, bringing membership dues down to $5. And once the JCW kit becomes available, you can bet that I'll be buying that through the BMW dealer!
Jason
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