Is it easier to take the whole bumper off when removing the lower grile?

 

From DIY articles I've seen I'd have to say yes... All of them pretty much illustrate removing the whole bumper to get it off...

 

On my '06 MCS, that lower grill piece extends upwards to receive the screws that hold on the front license plate holder. If you have the plate holder on, remove it before you try to pull that lower grill piece without removing the bumper completely.

I believe that there were enough attachment points that it almost required the bumper to come off. Removing the bumber also made it much easier to get my aftermarket grill (Grillcraft) on squarely. Take your time!

If you want to continue using the front plate holder, you will have to slice your stock lower grill piece to leave the hidden 'bolts' it provides and get the lower grill portion out of the way for your aftermarket piece.

 

http://www.realoem.com/bmw/showparts...02&hg=51&fg=15

 

It can be done without, but the grill has tabs that are fitting through slots on the back, which are then covered with a "hot glue" like sealer. So it would be best to remove the cover.

3 10mm bolts on bottom, 2 philips screws on bottom, 2 torx 25 or 30 top side and one 8 mm in each wheel well forward of the tire and pointed up. Some light connections and the temp probe and you're off. 10 minutes tops, might help some the first time of you remove the tires, but it's not necessary.

Good luck