How do I get the grill off? lol. I read the directions, I feel like I'm going to tear it when I try. The things just don't want to budge nor do I want to break it.

 

subscribing... i need to know too (i think), because i want access to the lower grill from the top grill..

 

This thread might help:

https://www.northamericanmotoring.co...ill-badge.html

 

this thread has pictures, its really easy to take the upper grill off
https://www.northamericanmotoring.co...56s-guide.html

 

Or you can opt for the rear badge holder which mounts underneath the license plate.

 

It is actually very easy, just be sure to NOT break the push tabs on the lower half.

 

As it happens, I had to remove my grille again to install grille badge holders (got a new grille after a deer hit). I took some pictures and slapped together a DIY type guide.

Mini Cooper S upper grille removal guide

HTH!

 

I'll give it a go tommorrow if I have time! Thanks!

 

My soninlaw broke a tab trying to remove his so when I went to do mine I did something different.... I used wire and did not have to remove it at all!

Got some fairly stiff electrical wire and wrapped it around one of the screws that had been screwed in (did not use backing plate). Threaded wire through grille and then was able to get my hand behind enough to wrap it around the other screw. Sounds a little jerry-rigged but has held it securely for the past year, even in the carwash (no flames!). Easy to take off when you trade, too.

 

Actually to add grill badges you do not have to completely remove the grill. You only need to remove the top clips and reach down with your wrench. That is what I do anyways.

 

I have to remove mine completely because the badge holder has phillip screws that has to go in from the back. To top it off I have the factory driving lights. So now I gotta figure out how to get those off and take the grill off and the same time. Any suggestions?

 

Duct tape!

 

Great work with this PDF guide. It really helped me figure out those bottom clips. I was squezing the wrong way!!

Kevin

 

One note - be very careful when uninstalling and installing the grille, especially around the bottom. There's potential there for scratching the bumper.

 

scratched my bumper putting grill back on

 

We put some masking tape on the front bumper before removing and installing our grill trim to help prevent scratching it. It seemed to work pretty good=no scratches!

 

Here's another link on grill removal with pictures:

http://www.forgemotorsport.co.uk/media/FMINTR56v2.pdf