BMW refused to sell me "M" parts... WTF!
Discussion
A fortnight ago my grandad has offered me his 2004 318i E46, this would finally replace my ageing Honda Civic 1.5i, the problem is that I'd really like the BM to look like the CSL model which I love, obviously I cannot afford a real CSL but I could add a few M3 and CSL parts to make it look convincing and with the right induction kit and exhaust replicate that CSL sound.
The parts counter guy said I need to either turn up in the car needing the parts or produce the log book to prove ownership of a genuine CSL?
Has anyone else had these issues? If so how did you get around it? Perhaps if I had a VIN no? These are easily readable in the window maybe I could get one when visiting a meet or show?
Also is this BMW policy or just the dealership being awkward?
Thanks
The parts counter guy said I need to either turn up in the car needing the parts or produce the log book to prove ownership of a genuine CSL?
Has anyone else had these issues? If so how did you get around it? Perhaps if I had a VIN no? These are easily readable in the window maybe I could get one when visiting a meet or show?
Also is this BMW policy or just the dealership being awkward?
Thanks
This has to be a wind-up, surely!
A 318i with the 4 cylinder N42 will never, NEVER sound like a CSL and bolted on CSL parts will only make you look like a chav.
I am glad BMW are safeguarding the reputation of their halo model to stop every 3-series coupe being bastardised to a CSL replica.
If you must bastardise your own car Ebay is probably the best bet.
A 318i with the 4 cylinder N42 will never, NEVER sound like a CSL and bolted on CSL parts will only make you look like a chav.
I am glad BMW are safeguarding the reputation of their halo model to stop every 3-series coupe being bastardised to a CSL replica.
If you must bastardise your own car Ebay is probably the best bet.
MajorProblem said:
I can't afford a real CSL sadly my circumstances are not as good as others at this time, however getting a free car would obviously mean I could spend a bit on it.
I think about Ebay but I don't want to be purchasing stolen parts, it's difficult to tell.
Apologies, some people seem to be in bad moods this morning.I think about Ebay but I don't want to be purchasing stolen parts, it's difficult to tell.
There is nothing wrong with modifying your car to be the way you want it to be.
What are you after? the steering wheel?
MajorProblem said:
I can't afford a real CSL sadly my circumstances are not as good as others at this time, however getting a free car would obviously mean I could spend a bit on it.
I think about Ebay but I don't want to be purchasing stolen parts, it's difficult to tell.
Save your money, don't barry it. Keep the money locked away so that you can one day afford a CSL. I wouldn't go spending money modifying what is probably a nice, honest, 318i. Keep it nice, and save for that CSL or "normal M3".I think about Ebay but I don't want to be purchasing stolen parts, it's difficult to tell.
MajorProblem said:
A fortnight ago my grandad has offered me his 2004 318i E46, this would finally replace my ageing Honda Civic 1.5i, the problem is that I'd really like the BM to look like the CSL model which I love, obviously I cannot afford a real CSL but I could add a few M3 and CSL parts to make it look convincing and with the right induction kit and exhaust replicate that CSL sound.
The parts counter guy said I need to either turn up in the car needing the parts or produce the log book to prove ownership of a genuine CSL?
Has anyone else had these issues? If so how did you get around it? Perhaps if I had a VIN no? These are easily readable in the window maybe I could get one when visiting a meet or show?
Also is this BMW policy or just the dealership being awkward?
Thanks
Well done that dealer The parts counter guy said I need to either turn up in the car needing the parts or produce the log book to prove ownership of a genuine CSL?
Has anyone else had these issues? If so how did you get around it? Perhaps if I had a VIN no? These are easily readable in the window maybe I could get one when visiting a meet or show?
Also is this BMW policy or just the dealership being awkward?
Thanks
Obviously body kit, agree M3 genuine bits will be pricey but they will fit perfect, maybe a CSL rep bumper, badges, I could tint the windows to hide the fact I haven't got the full interior.
I suppose tuning the engine to make that noise would be hardest, still to get anything out of BMW I'm a bit stuffed at the minute.
I suppose tuning the engine to make that noise would be hardest, still to get anything out of BMW I'm a bit stuffed at the minute.
Du1point8 said:
A 318 E46 will never look like a CSL/M model.
(Why not? They are the same chassis and shell are they not?)
Save you money and either cash in the car and buy an older M model?
(Circumstance says this won't happen plus they cost loads more to run and service)
£4k for the 318 and couple more K for a E46 M3 or E36 M3...
(See above)
It would make a lot more sense then wasting money barrying up a 318.
(I thought it would be good, nice looking and sounding car, cheap to run and you can only do 70mph anyway)
(Why not? They are the same chassis and shell are they not?)
Save you money and either cash in the car and buy an older M model?
(Circumstance says this won't happen plus they cost loads more to run and service)
£4k for the 318 and couple more K for a E46 M3 or E36 M3...
(See above)
It would make a lot more sense then wasting money barrying up a 318.
(I thought it would be good, nice looking and sounding car, cheap to run and you can only do 70mph anyway)
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