Anyone done '05 4.4 front bumper replacement with 4.8is version?
 

The front bumper of my 05' 4.4 sports needs replacement and I'm thinking of taking this opportunity to update it to the 4.8is version. Has any one done this on facelift 4.4? Is the 4.8is front bumper a plug and play fit on my X5? Is the front wheel flares a requirement?

It is plug and play yes because it's the same bumper with a few add-on pieces, so you can even reuse your own if possible

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The is bumper is only different in that the lower painted portion is a trim piece. You can put it on you stock bumper like Clockwork said.

The front fender flares (which I don't think we're available on US models) also just clip on. The bump and plastic fenders have slots drilled to accommodate the clips.

Here's a direct link to a 2011 thread that discussed this topic: https://xoutpost.com/bmw-sav-forums/...kit-4-8is.html

The facelift e53 can do a quick/easy "is" front upgrade by purchasing the lower valance for the 4.6is...paint then install it (usually professionally adhered to the existing unpainted facelift bumper). The only difference (doing this mod) from the full 4.8is upgrade is...the painted lower bumper does NOT completely encircle the lower grill/vents...only the lower valance of the front bumper would be painted.


Note the difference of the front bumper's painted areas between the 4.6is (lower valance only) & 4.8is (painted valance also encircles the lower vents/grills) :

Thank you all. I bought a new OEM 4.8is bumper with some extra parts. Those parts are exactly the same as 4.4 facelift bumper. I had a seemingly minor frontal collision but upon closer inspection the damage on the inner parts of the bumper was extensive. And I just noticed even the front lip of the hood (just below the grill) is slightly bent in - I guess I can gently pull it back?

Blasphemy!!! That's like putting M badges on a non M BMW.

Wow, Upallnight, as Joshdub pointed out the bumpers are essentially the same. - almost 99.99% shared parts - same part numbers. Educate yourself here RealOEM.com - Select Your BMW Model

4.4L with the exterior IS treatment is a welcome addition to an X5 if the opportunity presents itself. Carry on and here is to making an X5 look even better.:thumbup:

He's just a troll. Don't fall for the bait.

Won't be long before you want the rear and wheel arch flares too.