Does an MCS really need to have the middle grille opening in the front bumper cover? My guess is no, since GPs have it covered.

If it's okay to cover it, anybody have an idea of the cost to have it filled in smooth?

 

It's fine to cover it up....it doesn't even go all the way through.

 

In my opinion, it looks pretty slick to smooth out that middle grill. If you are going to do that, think about the scoop as well
Those two would compliment each other nicely.

 

I did the oposite and cut that section out of the bumper to let more air through. The bumper carrier...the real aluminum bumper behind the plastic cover... has holes cut into it right where that little grill sits. I saw this when I was installing my sports grill and thought that cutting that out couldn't hurt airflow.

 

The middle grill does go through. It may not do to much but it does allow for airflow.

 

The Aero kit bumper cover has 2 slats that do let air through. Like some others I've also cut out the area between the slats to let more air flow. This lines up with the holes in the bumper core. I found at the right angle one could see the Al bits peeking through. First I rattle canned the core a matte black but that soon became chipped up. Last time the front of the MINI was apart I had the core powdercoated. Lets see how this holds up.

I'd be interested as to what method wold be good to fill the center opening. Bondo or something such as that would be to thick there and with the flexibility the cover has it may pop out in time. I would think some sort of Fiberglass wrap in the area may be the best method.

 

Hmm...they may have changed them. My 02 MC bumper doesn't go through and my 03 MCS bumper doesnt go through. I've had both bumpers off, so I've been able to look at the back and see that neither of them is open behind the grille.

 

when i did my 05 aero thinge, I don't remember seeing any openings either.

anyways, how would you shave the middle grill?

 

The middle grill is 100% cosmetic, meant to emphasize a bull dog appearance. For me it is a design element that doesn't work. The split in the grill looks artificial and the middle grill is simply fake.

Note that the middle grill was removed in the GP.

 

The recessed area on the center of the middle grill opening pictured below is slotted along the top and bottom.

 

The best way would be to have some ABS stock, cut it to shape and then plasti-weld it into place with Fusor (or a similar product meant for bonding plastics). Then you'd sand it smooth and paint.

(obviously that's overly simplified)

 

The GP looks to have a plug in that space, sadly only available with the entire bumper cover.

 

I would say that it was done more to mimic the shape of the Classic Mini's grill. But having to have the bumper split up the shape and ruined the look a little.

 

Samtrak has filled his middle grille in...

 

Its a good place to hide stuff, like weed for instance.