[IND-Distribution]

Painted reflectors are always among the first additions made by any owner of a modern BMW. Thanks to the U.S. DOT, the unsightly orange reflectors installed in cars bound for North America continue to break the smooth lines of BMW bumpers.

While it appears BMW is trying to mitigate how much reflectors stick out like a sore thumb by now slightly tinting them on the G8x chassis, IND continues to provide painted reflectors as a cost effective solution relative to the purchase of a OEM European bumper. We start the process using the OE BMW reflectors for a factory fit, and the same paint process we would use to spray an entire car. Each reflector is sanded, prepped for paint, primed, then painted. We ensure that all lettering on the face of the reflector is completely removed providing the same finish as your factory bumper.

Many enthusiasts enjoy installing their own painted reflectors, so we’ve created this installation DIY to help.

Tools needed:

• Bondo spreader
• Adhesive remover or cleaning solvent
• Heat gun and painters tape (optional)

Step 1:
First, we recommend removing the wheel as it provides more space to work, but you may find it easier to simply turn the steering wheel to full lock so wheel is facing inwards. This will allow you to see the back of the reflector exposed within BMW's front air



Step 2:
Next, if you are new to installing reflectors and using a heat gun, apply a layer of painters tape around the reflector. This will give you some extra protection to prevent any burning of your paint. Take the heat gun or hair dryer and fan over the reflector being careful not to get too close to the paint. This will help soften the adhesive on the OEM reflector.







Step 3:
Press on the lower portion of the reflector with your thumbs while using your fingers to pull the bumper towards you. Once the reflector separates from the body, place your bondo spreader between the reflector and bumper. Continue to work your way up, alternating between pressing with your thumbs and moving the spreader up until the reflector is free.











Step 4:
After the reflector is removed from the bumper cover take a cloth and some adhesive remover, or using your finger, remove any excess adhesive.




Step 5:
Now that the surface is clean, remove your painters tape and the adhesive cover on the painted reflector and push reflector in place. Make sure to apply even pressure around all edges.

















Step 6:
With the reflector installed, reinstall the wheel if you removed it for installation.

[IND-Distribution]

Video added.

[kooft]

Do you by any chance make front clear reflector sets for this instead of fully painted/color matched? Odd question/request!

[IND-Distribution]

Originally Posted by kooft

Do you by any chance make front clear reflector sets for this instead of fully painted/color matched? Odd question/request!

We do not offer them in a clear reflector.

[kiw1]

Originally Posted by IND-Distribution

We do not offer them in a clear reflector.

Doesn't look like frozen white is available?

[IND-Distribution]

Originally Posted by kiw1

Doesn't look like frozen white is available?

Most individual colors can be requested by sending us an email at info@ind-distribution.com

[Limegrntaln]

The scariest part is putting a heat gun to the paint. I was checking the temp by touch, after every pass or two. Also, pay close attention to where you lay the painters tape, if your front end it PPFd. You don't want to get a piece of tape too close to the PPF edge, or you may pull off some PPF.

[element56]

I used a hairdryer to avoid scorching... I doubt it got it as hot as it would be sitting in say Arizona direct sunlight, where as the heat gun would like bubble the paint.

[Limegrntaln]

Originally Posted by element56

I used a hairdryer to avoid scorching... I doubt it got it as hot as it would be sitting in say Arizona direct sunlight, where as the heat gun would like bubble the paint.

True, however, I was just waving the gun over the paint a few times to get it warm enough to pop them out. I'd think my PPF could curl up before the paint would bubble. And surprisingly the PPF was getting pretty hot and still not curling up.

But probably not any hotter than it would be sitting out, baking in the sun. Remember, touching the hood of a car, after it's been sitting in the 100° sun, gets hot enough to burn your hand, but doesn't bubble the paint.

[IND-Distribution]

[Jeg_e90m3]

Do you offer these for colors not listed on website? Looking for Frozen Pure grey metallic ii

[chicagofan00]

Originally Posted by Jeg_e90m3

Do you offer these for colors not listed on website? Looking for Frozen Pure grey metallic ii

Yes, they can do other colors. Just shoot them an email or give them a call.

[IND-Distribution]

Originally Posted by Jeg_e90m3

Do you offer these for colors not listed on website? Looking for Frozen Pure grey metallic ii

Originally Posted by chicagofan00

Yes, they can do other colors. Just shoot them an email or give them a call.

Yeah! You can reach out to us directly for color options that are not listed, or type out your color on the text field on our website listing.

[iviegatron]

Originally Posted by IND-Distribution

Yeah! You can reach out to us directly for color options that are not listed, or type out your color on the text field on our website listing.

Would you be making clear reflectors anytime soon?

[IND-Distribution]

Originally Posted by iviegatron

Would you be making clear reflectors anytime soon?

No plans on making clear reflectors.