Hello,

Long time browser, first time poster here. I've recently purchased a gently used 2009 Mini Cooper S in Midnight Black Metallic with the "factory" (aka non-JCW) Aero Kit. One of my first projects was to replace specific crome line exterior pieces with their black factory counterparts for that black-on-black look I've always loved. I was able to change the headlight rings, taillight rings, side scuttles and upper grille trim with absolutely no problems. However, I'm having a hell of a time with the lower grille trim part. Here's my journey thus far:

I purchased the "John Cooper Works Lower Grille Trim - Black" (along with the other parts mentioned above) from ECS Tuning (http://www.ecstuning.com/Mini-2009-C...rille/ES240680)

Upon installation, it became clear that the standard grille on my MCS and the lower grille trim piece I'd ordered were incompatible. After doing a bit of research and speaking with a rep at ECS, I discovered this part was only compatible with the "John Cooper Works Grille Black Mesh" (http://www.ecstuning.com/Mini-2009-C...rille/ES205752). This is obvious now, but wasn't at the time.

I then purchased the JCW black grille mentioned in the previous paragraph and upon receiving it, attempted to install. Unfortunately this is where I discovered that, although the JCW grille fits perfectly, the lower grille trim part is too wide for the space above the bumper. Doh!

From the somewhat extensive Internet research I've done thus far, I believe the problem lies with my "factory" Aero Kit. My guess is the upper bumper section below the grille on the JCW Cooper S (and potentially also on the stock Cooper S) are cut wider for this piece. I have searched high and low for a lower black line grille trim piece that's compatible with the "factory" Aero Kit, but to no avail.

Does anyone know if this part is made? If so, how in God's name can I go about acquiring it? If it's not, what are my alternatives short of either, A) Having the stock chrome part painted to match (potentially expensive), or B) switching my bumper to the JCW Aero Kit version (definitely expensive)? I suppose choice 'C' could be to cut the black lower grille trim piece I purchased, but that makes me nervous for obvious reasons.

Thanks for the assist!

 

Plasti Dip!

 

I've considered that or painting the stock "chrome" (plastic) part. Not sure if painting a material like that is even an option. Ether way, I'd definitely prefer a matching black replacement part before I explore those options.

 

I had the chrome around mine too and I plasti dipped it. It really is an amazing product, just peel it off when you are finished.

 

That's good to know. I've read other members posts about it before. I visited their website and it seems they have a wide variety of products. Is there a specific one you had the most success with?

 

Nope just the normal black in a can. Make sure you take your time and do it right and you should be fine.

 

there is a specific lower black part that fits a standard bumper, jus go into your mini dealership tell them you have a jcw grille and theyll sort you out the part numbers that will fit your car by the sounds of things you have the lower that is designed to fit a jcw front bumper that is marginally larger

 

Did you ever find a factory black lower trim piece? I've been told there isn't one for the factory aero kit (non-JCW). I'm about to have my chrome one painted since there doesn't seem to be another option I like. Not a fan of plasti dip or vinyl.

 

i got it to fit with minor mods to the outer edges of the bottom jcw black trim see here... http://imgur.com/a/NmFMh

 

Looks good. I wound up having the black head and tail light rings and grill trim painted to match the car. Had the original chrome lower trim painted so i need to get rid of the black one from WMW. The standard black color of the trim didn't exactly match the Midnight Black Metallic on the car...now it will
Thanks for following up.

 

I did actually get round to doing it and once i get a decent dry sunnyish day i have a vinyl wrap for the beltline to install too https://i.imgur.com/Vdt2vhq.jpg