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
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)
No but some people can't appreciate what you are saying.
Obviously they all go and do a sub 8 min lap of the ring before work and then throw their keys on the desk making sure the M badge is prominently viewed by the girl from accounts.
In 95% of situations (not including track) this car will do everything an M car does at a massively reduced price.
We can't all afford the top of the range everything.
Obviously they all go and do a sub 8 min lap of the ring before work and then throw their keys on the desk making sure the M badge is prominently viewed by the girl from accounts.
In 95% of situations (not including track) this car will do everything an M car does at a massively reduced price.
We can't all afford the top of the range everything.
Du1point8 said:
You are about to spend a crap load more than the above on barrying up a 318.
So I dont see the relevance of saying the above is expensive if you spend more than that converting one.
The car isn't going to have mega brakes, high bhp and put more stress on components therefore what ever I do it will be far cheaper to run. So I dont see the relevance of saying the above is expensive if you spend more than that converting one.
Leins said:
There's a reason this dealer policy is in place, at least in some countries. And it's got nothing to do with pretentiousness. I don't really care what the OP or any other E46-owner does with their car, as long as it doesn't affect my ability to get parts for mine. When various CSL-specific items run out, BMW don't seem to be in a huge rush to replenish stocks anymore
Still think this thread is a wind-up though
So if you went to BM and they didn't have the part would you be questioning then on who's been buying the stuff? They can put things in place to prevent it but it's not unbeatable. Still think this thread is a wind-up though
I did say I'd sort the colour. I don't see what the problem is. The M brand has been on mass dilution since they realised how well the E30 did.
With the M accessories and M sport spec I can't see what harm a replica will do, in fact it could be seen as supporting and promoting the brand.
With the M accessories and M sport spec I can't see what harm a replica will do, in fact it could be seen as supporting and promoting the brand.
Lost soul said:
MajorProblem said:
The M brand has been on mass dilution since they realised how well the E30 did.
Because of people like you Triumph Man said:
MajorProblem said:
I was looking a gen parts with the exception of the front bumper which will be big money. The ebay car was an idea of something to do last resort if the BMW dealer shuts me out completely.
Pictures if you want when I'm home but no doubt more piss taking will ensue...
Sorry that was starting to grate...Pictures if you want when I'm home but no doubt more piss taking will ensue...
OP, I may only have a 520i, but I would be absolutely off my rocker to try to turn it into some M5 rep. It never will be, I don't want it to be, and I'd look like a twonk.
Just don't do it. Don't be that guy.
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