I just acquired a 2004 Cooper S and I have noticed a couple problems I would like to try and remediate.

1. The passenger side door handle trim refuses to stay in place so if you open the door, the trim falls off. None of the clips on the trim seem to be broken but it doesn't want to snap into place. Perhaps the clip inside the door is broken?

2. I have a checkerboard external rear view mirror covers. The white portions of the checkerboard have started to yellow. It must have been the sun as it is worse on the top. Any way to rewhiten? I suppose I could get new ones.

Take Care

 

I have seen the checkers yellow before. There may be a solvant that can cut through the yellow, but you will have to experiment. You can try on the bottom (after removing them) and try to determine if it is surface or throughout the color. If surface, something will take it down (Sandpaper as last resort, then respray clear.)