4.8 Kit on a facelift 2006 3.0 - And yes, I've searched! UPDATED WITH PICS!
 

Hi all,

I know this has been covered a million times, as I've just searched and read through about a dozen posts. However I'm looking for a clear distinction I'm not finding.

Question is...for a post facelift (ie 2004-2006) E53 X5 3.0, does the "4.8 Kit" consist of just the two pieces, front and rear "spoilers" and "bolt right on"? I've read of the two end-caps for the 4.8 so it would actually be 4 pieces but basically just the front and rear trim pieces?

The distinction I'm searching for is:

When doing the 4.8 KIT does the front 4.8 spoiler piece bolt on to my lil' 3.0 bumper or do you replace the ENTIRE bumper?

Thanks and sorry but I couldn't clarify this detail. Our X5 got hit at Newark Airport and needs a new front bumper and I'm trying to get the 4.8 kit installed at the same time. I'm even thinking if he can just order me a "4.8 front bumper" that would include the extra 4.8 spoilers.

Thanks again!

Yes you replace the ENTIRE bumper ( front)


Here are P/N for you need/want.
Front bumper 51117146578
Support rear bumper trim 51127062601
Support cover, left 51127062599
Support cover, right 51127062600

Thanks! But do you NEED to replace the entire bumper to get the 4.8 look on a 3.0?

Can you just add the front and rear "4.8 kit" pieces to the existing 3.0 bumper?

Thanks again - I've got a bodyshop that is going to be replace our 3.0 (assumidly with a new 3.0 bumper) along with the quarter panel from a recent accident so I thought I could either get the "4.8 kit" and have them add that to the new 3.0 bumper or maybe even just have them replace our damaged 3.0 bumper with a 4.8 one.

Do we know the cost difference between a new 3.0 bumper and a new 4.8 bumper with the extra spoiler piece at the bottom? I wouldn't think the price would be far off and I suppose my bodyshop could just do that without too much trouble with Geico who will be the insurance company on the claim.

Really appreciate your help as I'd hate to have issues with the bodyshop on fitment and/or the costs since we're dealing with the insurance company.

You want the looks of 4.8is then you need the entire bumper ( 4.8is)
Or you can get the add on kit that will make your ride looks like 4.6is
As for the price it's not much of diff between the 3.0 and 4.8is front bumper one ( maybe $200)

Hi, you can get a complete 4.8is add on kit for yours, you would also need the arches to complete the look which is 6 piece! There are a couple companys who do it all, I can dig out the companys if wanted!

Altogether the 4.8 look(4piece bumper kit and 4 fender flares) your looking at 2000.00 painted.

MRBMWX5 is right. The whole front bumper cover for the 4.8is is molded in one piece and plastic cage weld reinforced on the inside to give it some structural support. You need to buy a whole replacement cover for your 3.0. The 4.8is front cover is hard to find if you don't buy new. I tried to find one for a year, and only came across one or two on ebay over that time period. It will cost you a pretty penny new + paint. I ended up buying a reconditioned front bumper that looked brand new and had it painted. The "4.8is look" conversion is not cheap. JST's estimate is about right, maybe a little more depending on where you get the parts painted and where you source all the flares, rear valence, valence caps, and front cover.

Hi,
You know who sells the arch fender flares in the UK?Apart from Bmw,of course:thumbup:

Add on kit for 2004-2006 3.0i,4.4i for the 4.8is looks.

BMW e53 X5 4.8is Body kit:eBay Motors (item 250560198568 end time Feb-06-10 23:44:17 PST)

OK first of all thanks for all the replies...they all add some info to clear this up for me.

So, for the 4.8is look up front I need to get the entire front bumper, which would including the extra body-color "spoiler" piece at the bottom which is really what we're all looking for.

Or...I could get the 4.6 front spoiler piece and have that painted and added to my 3.0 front bumper.

Is that the final answer!?!?

If so....how is this ebay listing selling that a "4.8is kit" that mrbmwx5 was so kind as to post?

I remain confused....(but thanks all and please lets flush this thing out!)

BMW e53 X5 4.8is Body kit:eBay Motors (item 250560198568 end time Feb-06-10 23:44:17 PST)

PS - My desire to add the 4.8 kit/look to our 3.0 is due to the fact that we were recently in an accedent and need a new front bumper for our 3.0 anyway.

Our X will be having the front bumper removed and replaced with a new one...pending Geico not somehow forcing me into getting a refurb or used front bumper as part of the claim. We'll see....I just see this as an awesome chance to add the 4.8 kit (rear piece I would just buy and have painted while the work is being done) while it's in the body shop.

Thanks again all!

That kit on ebay is not OEM, its made of fiberglass. It might look nice as your driving by, but its no 4.8is. Anyway who's getting on their knees to inspect it.

Cool thanks...good call.

Anyone else confirm once-and-for-all my questions above regarding this 4.8 front bumper upgrade thing?

Thanks again y'all.

It also looks like from the "kit" pictures on ebay that the lower front trim piece sticks out more than the OEM because you have to mount it over the regular bumper cover. The OEM one is more flush and doesn't look like you put a chin strap on there.

So in total this Ebay guy will charge 835.00 usd to supply and deliver!Althought its cheaper than the oem parts,this is by no means cheap,especially considering that it it "cheap" breakable fibreglass!
nra0707 nicely pointed out that the front spoiler is not flush as the oem and does actually look a bit weird on the top edge and it looks as if its stuck on!
I also notice some imperfections,ripples ,typical of fibreglass.
To add to this,the black paint they used to paint the arch fender flares,doesnt match up with the oem natural plastic arches!

I am not you ,but if I was in your position I would buy the following oem parts:-

1.Front 4.6 spoiler(although not 4.8 look but looks great and original!)
2.Rear 4.6/4.8 spoiler
3.Rear set only of 4.6/4.8 arch fender flares.
:)

Yes, what MrBMWX5 said about the possible OE bumper upgrades are correct (hence his name :D). You have a post-facelift X5 so just go with the 4.8 front bumper that, yes, includes the lower front spoiler section. Unless, of course, you prefer the 4.6 look. ;)

The rest of the stuff - the rear spoiler and wheel arch flares are the same for the 4.6 and 4.8. So, no guesswork there. If you're not planning a full 4.6/4.8 makeover (like changing to 20" staggered wheels/tires) then maybe you don't need the wheel arch flares.

Obviously, think about any details like make sure you order the correct front bumper that includes the front HL washers, if you have them now currently.

Also, IMHO, don't bother with anything other than genuine BMW parts.

Good Luck! :thumbup:

Alright...if I haven't made this clear yet you guys are awesome, and this board rocks. Can't wait for my new 4.8 front end.

If I can contribute something back, I will share with you all that I've confirmed through a dealer and my bodyshop that the price of the bumper for the (facelift) 3.0 is actually VERY close to the 4.8, with them both costing about $850. Seems interesting and I remain concerned that this is the right piece. How can they be so close in price if the 4.8 version has the extra body-color spoiler at the bottom???

So if I order the correct version (with PDC and headlight washers as my 3.0 has) the 4.8 bumper should bolt right on, just as a new 3.0 bumper would. There will just be the additional paintwork to spray the spoiler at the bottom.

Seems that the rear-spoiler is very straight forward. But just the spoiler (and the two end caps) and it will fit to the rear bumper of our lil' 3.0.

Thanks again guys I'm stupid excited over this. I guess something good will come from this accident!

The 4.8 bumper will bolt, screw, and snap in exactly like 4.4i/3.0 bumpers. Make sure you save the metal screw guides for the wheel wells (2 each side) and fog lamps (2 each side) from the old bumper if the new one doesn't already come with them. See part #18. RealOEM.com BMW E53 X5 4.8is Trim panel bumper front - HP

Also, you'll need new grids and towing eye flap covers if you didn't break the old ones from the accident. See parts #9, 10 and 11. Same with the fog lamp covers and headlight washer nozzle caps, reuse the old ones if they aren't banged up.

Again, each of your posts helps to clear this up and get some confirmation on how this will go. Given that I'm doing this as part of a front end bodyshop repair from an accident I really want to make sure it goes as smoothly as possible. Geico and all have been a real pain.

Your point above is excellent about all the little odds and ends. wonderful insight and thanks a million. My body shop already talked about saving/reusing the fog-light & headlight washer covers. I'll have to look at the tow eye flap. What do you mean by "new grids"?

It seems that this thread has clairified (which I could not find otherwise via search) that the post-facelift 4.8 bumper WILL DIRECTLY REPLACE that on the 3.0 or 4.4. Someone should have this noted on the homepage if possible.

It's funny how careful dealer/bodyshop/parts counter guys are about confirming this seemingly simple fact. Apparently far better knowledge on certain details of our E53's is right here on the boards.

So, if I can contribute for others I have the following info/pricing on these parts to share from our dealer in NJ.
2004-2006 X5 3.0 "bumper" (w/ headlight cleaning & PDC) is 51117129297 @ $905.53.
2004-2006 X5 4.8is "bumper" (w/ PDC...no option for headlight cleaning???) is 51117146578 @ $863.43.

Go figure the 3.0 bumper is cheaper?!?!?

Also BMW Parts department said "probably won't work since the 2004-2006 X5 4.8is "bumper" doesn't offer an option for headlight cleaning system....only choice is for PDC or not". I thought maybe this would be due to the fact that ALL 4.8's came with headlight cleaning system therefor no choice for it in the parts system at the dealer???

Thanks a million guys and I'll follow up to let you know it goes. At this point I've got call Geico and get them to come out and see the car then it's go time....maybe a week or two.

Thanks Thanks Thanks! :thumbup:

These are the plastic mesh grill inserts that are diamond pattern. Some X5s have them in black or titanium. If your original ones are in ok shape, just slide them out and slide lock them into the new 4.8 bumper.

I'm pretty sure it's assumed that all 4.8is bumpers have headlight washers, so I wouldn't worry. If for some reason it doesn't have it, most bumpers have the hole patterns outlined in the interior side of the plastic, so they can be carefully drilled or cut out so that the headlight washer jets and cap can fit. A Dremel would make easy work of this.

I ordered the 4.8is bumper thru BMW and asked for the non washer head lamp but it still came with the holes but the body shop was great and did a great job.

Excellent, and thanks again guys. Wonderful insight and hope this goes well! I think the last bit of work will be our dealings with Geico to see how much they will give me towards the new bumper. The bodyshop says it will have to be replaced (as opposed to repaired) so we'll see. A few people that I've talked to said Geico will try to get us/make us get used or aftermarket parts. We shall see.

I'll be sure to retain the original bumper as they are fitting the new one to make sure all the little odds and ends can be pulled off the original.

I look forward to seeing some pics of the end results:thumbup:

Me too!

HAHA We're just going through the motions with Geico and their insurance company to see how will pay for the repairs. I've already got two quotes from local bodyshops and both are ready and willing to order me a 4.8 bumper instead of the 3.0 which they normally would.

Here's a great idea for those who want a 4.8 look on their 3.0 or 4.4. Crash your X5 and you'll only pay the insurance deductible, typically around $500 and you can get the 4.8 front bumper look! Ok, thats a bad idea, just how it's working out for me!

Well, I have a bit of an update and some info to share on the upgrade to the 4.8is "kit". I went to Morristown BMW today and worked with one of their parts guys to get some further details and (discounted) pricing.

Also, to clarify, this is not really sold as a "kit" from BMW dealers, rather you are just buying the extra spoiler which gets added (with adhesive most often times) to your existing rear bumper, two "end caps" for that spoiler and then the entire front bumper from the 4.8is which replaces your current bumper. The front bumper from the 4.8is basically adds the additional body-color spoiler or valence or whatever you want to call it on along the bottom of the bumper. Most agree this is a significant upgrade to the 3.0 or 4.4 bumper as looks go.

Parts numbers and prices -
And note that Morristown BMW in NJ, when selling these 4 pieces together, is offering some awesome pricing. They said it would be ok to point board members to them if people are interested. Buying the pieces individually does not get you this pricing, only as a set. As a side note from my original thread on this (which I'll post this in as well), a bunch of people said you'd be be near $2000 for the 4.8 kit painted. I could see this working out to $1500 for sure.

So, Part number - 51117146578 Primed 4.8is Front Bumper $550
51127062601 "Support rear bumper" (aka rear spoiler piece) $275
51127062599 Support cover left $125
51127062500 Support cover right $125
$1075 with paint maybe around $1500!!!!! NICE!

I'll keep you all updated as we progress if anyone is interested and once again big thanks to everyone for replying to my post and helped to clarify this upgrade for the rest of us!

Hope to soon have one of the first Highland Green 4.8 replica's!!!

Hey, are you not planning on putting the flares? Those are the black lips that go around the wheel well. It should be part of the kit or "set". Also, do you have the 20's? its not complete if you dont have the wheels.

Not too sure about the flares yet, and as I know it they can be added on at any time, no?

Also, the timing for my 4.8 kit upgrade has come to be as we were in a light accident, although one that requires a new front bumper and I thought it would be the perfect time to get the 4.8 bumper. Add the rear section and I've got myself 80% of the 4.8 kit! Running boards and the arches to follow.

Most importantly, as you noted, was to get a set of 20's to complete the look. I actually have a set of 22's right now that I'm trying to sell so I can get some 20' 87's. I've been in love with them for years and just never got them...nows the time. So yes, 20's will follow.

If you know anyone interested in some 22's with Pirelli tires in absolutly like-new condition for $1600 (SMOKIN' DEAL...I PAID OVER $3000!!!) I have them for sale. PM me or see my add in the "For Sale" section of the forums here.

Thanks!

OK, 4.8is Kit installed! Thanks for allthe help teaser pics inside!
 

Hi All,

Well, finally it's done. And it looks sick! Love it, as i knew I would afterlusting after the 4.6/4.8 bumpers for the past 10 years. Finally it's in my driveway.

Mainly I wanted to reach out to you guys and thank you for all the help and insight. Seemingly simple mods can easily go wrong if they're not done right and thanks to the boards I got this one nailed.

THANKS ALL!

For those who have not read through the OP, I came into my 4.8 KIT with a small accident to or front bumper, had to pay our $500 deductible and just had the body shop order a 4.8 bumper instaed of a 3.0 bumper for the front. With our insurance covering the $930 front bumper, I managed to get Morristown BMW sell me the entire kit for $1075. Yes thats right, I paid only the roughly $150 difference. Bitchin', I know. Oh, and that pesky $500 deductible but still got the 4.8 look for about $700 out of pocket. (Also, please note by "KIT" I'm talking about the four pieces for the front and back bumpers. The ENTIRE new front bumper from the 4.8is and the small "valence or spoiler" piece and it's two end caps that attach onto the bottom of the rear bumper).

So, it all worked out well, took a lot longer than expected but now is done. I'm planning the fender flares to come down the road as I'm looking to "complete the look" with some 20'' 87's.

IF ANYBODY HAS 87'S WITH RUBBER IN GOOD SHAPE LET ME KNOW! I HAVE A (LITERALLY) LIKE0NEW SET OF SIMPLE 5-SPOKE CHROME 22'S WITH PIRELLI'S. TRADE?!?!? THEY ARE IN THE FOR SALE FORUMS IF ANYONE WANTS TO LOOK.
http://www.xoutpost.com/bmw-sav-item...es-e53-x5.html

Anyway, here are some teaser pics with more to come hopefully later today. Thanks again everyone and we hope to have one of the only Highland Green 4.8 replica's around!!!

Congrats .Looks great!:thumbup:
One thing that looks odd is that PDC on the left corner?It seems its sticking out and doesnt look right??The Pdcs dont look the same as oem:dunno:

Sorry for off topic but does that have front spacers? If you know, thnx

Hey Powers1,

Thanks for pointing that out and I'll have to go and check. Obviously they were to order all OEM parts to replace those damaged but I'll have to confirm. Thanks again for the insight.

Yours looks awesome, maybe cause it's the real deal!!!

Still looking to trade my 22's for some 87's if there's anyone in the NY/NJ metro area...

Yes..15mm...:)

Just trying to help without sounding in anyway critical!
I was looking at the holes where the pdcs go and even those seem odd,but difficult to tell in the photo!
They may have fitted non-oem or other Bmw model pdcs?
Hope you get it sorted..

All the best:thumbup:

No problem and thanks again for the good eye!

BTW, what color is your X? I thought the first pic was gray but your pic in the top corner of your posts looks almost Highland Green like ours!

My X is Brooklands Green and a 2003 3.0D prefacelift.Maybe the blacked out grill makes it look different!
The picture I posted in this thread to show the pdc close up is from a user here with a 4.8is...:)

Brooklands Green? We don't get that color in the US. I wonder if it's the equivalent of Highland Green here in the states? Does your X look like mine? Post some pics would ya?!?

I think mine is a darker green!Sometimes on a dull day ,it seems black:)