4.8is Brake Air Channel Cover
 

Hi,

I just noticed yesterday that according to the parts catalog the E53 4.8is should have a cover (part # 51717028942) on one of the front brake air channels.
Mine does not have such a cover.
What about other 4.8is drivers? If you have one, is it on the left or right side?
Any idea what could be the reason for this cover?

So you just have a rectangular hole in the fender liner? I think all E53 cars should have these covers in place (one on each side).

Not comletely rectangular, but like in this drawing:
https://ibb.co/ZSR0rgD

According to the parts catalog, all versions of the E53 except the 4.6is have this cover, but the quantity is one. So probably only on the right side?

There are two but they are mirror image of each other, so left and right have different part numbers. ;)

There is only one part number and quantity is one.

Regardless of what you read on the parts fiche, mine has two - I'm looking at them both right now...

Ok, thank you. Do you know the reason for these covers?

Not for sure but I figure they allow access to something inside the fender liner. It may be that a stage in the assembly line requires access or it may be a maintenance item. I've never removed them though.

Or perhaps they thought they might need a brake air duct there at one point but never implemented it? :dunno:

On other vehicles, these covers often allow for fog lamp bulb replacement...

They will be there for a reason though - I can't imagine BMW would add parts for no reason! :rolleyes: