X5 M / M package paint chipping issue
 

X5 M / M Package paint chipping issue
Hey guys, new today to the forum!

I have a deal in place for a space grey 2011 X5 M and recently came across a thread pertaining to the rear fender / lower rocker / sandblasting / rock chipping after just a few thousand miles.

Couple questions

- is this a real issue, and do mudflaps + 3m solve this?

- are the dealers aware, and would you use BMW 3M or a thicker product is what Mercedes and Porsche use?

- would this dissuade you from buying again?

- can anyone in a snowy climate attest to the paint chip effects being worse?

- any Canadians having problems?

My salesperson said he has not known of this issue.

If this is a real issue, I may switch to Alpine White.

Your thoughts and input much appreciated!!!

- is this a real issue, and do mudflaps + 3m solve this?
Yes Real issue. Solved, if you cover all the areas with the thick 3M film
- are the dealers aware, and would you use BMW 3M or a thicker product is what Mercedes and Porsche use?
Yes, Dealers and BMW are both aware of this issue. If I do it I will put the thicker 3M product(the one they use for headlights)
- would this dissuade you from buying again?
naah, the driving fun outweighs the chip damage :zoom:


:xoutpost:

Thanks for the reply !! .....
]
The "thick" 3m...have you used it, and how does it hold up??

Can you show a diagram as to where to apply the thick 3m?

Thanks

great forum

The thick 3M protects paint well. All lower areas on side of car should have thick film.
See diagram below. Red area is worst hit.
Also see this thread - http://www.xoutpost.com/bmw-sav-foru...ar-wheels.html

http://www.xoutpost.com/attachments/...ne-damage-.jpg

Do you happen to know how thick the thicker 3M is that seems to be holding up? Is it the headlight film?

I have seen as regular film as thick as 10 mill and headlight film up to 30 mill....

Don't know the thickness.

Over the long term even the thick film will be destroyed & very ugly and need to be replaced. I recently had the M specific mudflaps installed and I actually prefer the look of the car with them - though I know many won't agree with that sentiment. I will send some pics shortly, but for maximum protection I would get these in addition to the film.

Any pics of your truck with the flaps on?

Love to see them

Anyone know the thickness of the
3m to be used?
8mm with 2mm clear coat?
10mm with 2mm clear?

14mm?

Nowhere close to 8-14mm.. that's +/- 5/16th to 1/2 inch thick.

It's also not close to 30mil. 30mil is the thickness of the credit cards in your wallet.

3M or Ventureshield are both about 8 mil - or .2mm

They have to been thin to make the contours around your SUV.

http://www.ppffilm.com/images/ventureshield.pdf

I didn't do VS or 3M because I'm leasing mine.. why pay the $1000?

If I planned to keep it, I would absolutely do what LeMan's suggested.

I have Ventureshield on my Z06 for four years and it's completely saved my paint. Looks like the day it was installed.