Side panel damaged from seat belt?

[mjamesp13]

PN 51436955359 but that is for Gray color. PN will vary based on color.

[kimg9582]

Originally Posted by mjamesp13

I believe you are referring to the lower plastic portion which goes from floor right up to about the belt carrier? If so, I replaced both of mine and each was ~$35 from 1stbmwparts.com - easy to swap out. Simply pull from bottom where there are two plastic trim clips securing the piece, then slide entire piece down towards floor and in towards interior of cabin. Help this helps..

Is this an OEM part? If so, what's the point of replacing them since it will get dinged all over again.

[Penguin]

Originally Posted by kimg9582

Is this an OEM part? If so, what's the point of replacing them since it will get dinged all over again.

You can start being more careful and not ding the new part. Mine is a year old with 20K on it and has zero seat belt dings. Prior to getting my X5 I'd read about the dinging problem, so I've been careful not the let the buckle fly when I unbuckle.

[kimg9582]

Originally Posted by Penguin

You can start being more careful and not ding the new part. Mine is a year old with 20K on it and has zero seat belt dings. Prior to getting my X5 I'd read about the dinging problem, so I've been careful not the let the buckle fly when I unbuckle.

Ok, OK, I see the logic, but what do I do with my passenger?

[shingo43]

My is replaced under warranty, I think it is a design flaw.

[kimg9582]

Originally Posted by shingo43

My is replaced under warranty, I think it is a design flaw.

wow. was it replaced with the same OEM plastic piece? or is there something better? Thanks. BTW, how hard was it to convince BMW to cover under warranty?

[shingo43]

Originally Posted by kimg9582

wow. was it replaced with the same OEM plastic piece? or is there something better? Thanks. BTW, how hard was it to convince BMW to cover under warranty?

They replaced the same bmw part. I talked to the service manager and convinced him that it is a design flaw. All you need to do is be nice and respectful. But they only replaced the driver side for me.

[mjamesp13]

Penguin you are right; careful with the belt. I did not create the initial damage, I purchased a CPO and previous owner was not careful. Of course I replaced both sides and numerous other trim pieces because I am anal..