This is the stupidest question I've ever asked on a forum. I bought new OE JCW center caps. Just the domed metal disks -- the plastic bits that clip into the wheels are in good shape. There's a protective plastic on them that should be removed to expose the shiny new metal surface. What's the trick to getting the plastic off? I can tell it's there but have had no luck getting it off and don't want to damage the caps. Any advice?

 

Maybe try a sharp object, like a blade at the edge of the disk to catch to protective plastic. Carefully, of course.

 

Thanks for the reply. I've tried both a sharp utility knife and a needle. With both I catch the plastic a bit but it's not even close to peeling. I've also tried rubbing alcohol and heat (not at the same time). It seems like something's not right. I bought them from WMW and their listing indicates that the plastic should be removed.

 

How have the center covers held up for you so far?My past experience with these aftermarket covers on BMW and MB is that they may last about a year before the weather and sun makes them start to look really bad. I guess for the cost you just replace them every year or so.
192.168.100.1 192.168.1.1

 

I replaced 2 of my center cap covers about 6 months ago and so far, they’re holding up fine. Maybe 2 years ago, I had replaced the other 2 entire center caps and those also are great.

Both the center caps and the covers I bought from FCP Euro. If my cap covers fall off or are otherwise unsatisfactory, I’ll bite the bullet and buy the 4x as expensive complete center caps.

 

I can't address durability as my car hasn't been out of the garage since I got the new center caps. It's a summer-only car. The new parts are genuine MINI (not aftermarket) so I expect them to be reasonably durable.