[jeffthx]

I recently bought my first BMW: A 2015 435i xDrive convertible. Someone pointed out something that I can't unsee now. The lower vent area around the foglights isn't the same on each side. The driver's side looks like a solid piece, while the passenger side looks open next to the foglight. Is this normal? I've tried to zoom in on a number of online pictures, but I can't definitively tell if this is how it's supposed to be. Am I missing a piece? I can post picture of what I mean if this isn't clear (I just have to figure out how to do so).

Thanks,
Jeff

[RTPenland]

yes post pic

[Korvo]

If you're referring to the non-M-Sport version, it's intentional and for airflow.

I was able to locate a few on google that look the same.

[jeffthx]

If this is for airflow, why would it only be on one side? I believe this is the M Sport bumper (still learning the specifics on this vehicle).

Driver's Side (solid panel next to foglight):


Passenger Side (open vent next to foglight):


THanks,
Jeff

[T0NE*F32]

I believe it's to cool off the oil cooler.. which is located behind the bumper on passenger side

[jeffthx]

Originally Posted by T0NE*f30

I believe it's to cool off the oil cooler.. which is located behind the bumper on passenger side

Thanks; I assumed it was to cool something, I just wasn't sure if it was intentionally asymmetrical that way.

Jeff

[eraxy]

This is all correct One side is closed the other open.

[RAK92]

Originally Posted by jeffthx

Thanks; I assumed it was to cool something, I just wasn't sure if it was intentionally asymmetrical that way.

Jeff

Indeed it’s intentional. I asked the same thing when I picked up my 2016 435i MSport a couple years ago. Nice to know I wasn’t the only one who saw this.

[Agent99]

Assuming my 340i is similar, that blocking panel can be removed but it is some work.

I have the Tracking Package on my 340i which deletes the front fog lights but does add M brakes and cool AF painted calipers. The reason is for increased airflow to the whole wheel area (i.e. brakes).

However, I wanted my front fogs (which also serve as cornering lights) so went about retrofitting them back in. I found that the ducting behind the fogs needs changed out for ducting that allows room for the fog light. Also, one could install a blank panel to further block air (I'm not sure why someone would do this but perhaps there is a reason) in the grille area like you see on yours. They simply snap onto the fog grille.

Basically, you need to remove your tire...remove the wheel liner...and continue removing things (intercooler, ducting, etc.) until you can get access to pop the blank panel off. Removing the front bumper might be another way but I didn't go that route.

All that said, I wonder what might be detrimental about removing that blocking panel? The imbalance would peg my ODC something fierce...but that is me.

[Solidjake]

I'm 100% sure it's to stick a screwdriver in there to adjust the height of the fog lights...