Hi folks, first post here. I hope I'll be in a position to get a Cooper S in the near future. But anyways, I noticed the Coopers have a chrome trim on the rear hatch...I mean boot above the license plate. The Cooper S on the other hand does not. I was wondering if one could easily install the chrome trim on a Cooper S. Again thanks.

 

Hello there...I am also hoping to be fortunate enough to get a cooper soon, I think you could order the chrome piece from a dealer(might be exspensive for what it is)and I would think it would be just a matter of replacing one with the other...no worries

 

I have not done it, but I have seen it done on an S. The part is about $60 from the dealer and the install is quite easy.
The driver ho did it is an MCO user so he may chime in on this post later.

 

Just my opinion...its nice to consider add ons, but get the car...there's time for the rest. There's lots of stuff I could do to my Cooper, but I'm still discovering how just how good the car really is....from many perspectives. (aesthetic design, performance, handling, etc.) Lots of nuances here. Occasionally, I add something, but only after giving it a lot of thought...there's so much out there. A conservative view, perhaps, but just my opinion. In any case, job 1 is "enjoy your car" however that seems right to you.

 

Welcome to MCO. Yes, it can be done and is a fairly simple install.

The part number (please verify) should be: 51 137 074 020.

It is all one assembly, so when you replace the body colored boot "handle", you will also replace the license plate light housing, etc.

I have some instructions for this, and I think I posted them somewhere on here. I'll see what I can find for you.

See ya,
JS

 

Here you go. Part Number and instructions:

Chrome Boot Handle Replacement

See ya,
JS

 

Thanks everyone. This site has been very useful in doing research on the Mini. Hopefully if things work out I'll be a proud owner one day. I even got my friend into the Mini and we're planning to visit the Mini dealer in Manhattan.