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BMW 3-Series and 4-Series Forum (F30 / F32) | F30POST > Technical Forums > F30 DIYs and Coding Discussions > F30 328i 335i Front Kidney Grill / Grille removal and replacement DIY
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      11-03-2018, 10:58 AM   #243
dizziestdread79
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I managed to do it without having to remove bumper etc. It's not very pretty and destroys the original grill but noticing people having issues with lining up bumper etc I decided to do it this way.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4M_sE-HUQc4&t=110s

Apologises to the perfectionists...you will not enjoy my method
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      11-27-2018, 11:07 AM   #244
stefanbaumg
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I also just did this without removing the bumper or damaging the original grille.

I admittedly have long fingers that made it easy to get to the tabs and I also used some trim removal tools to push the tabs. The first one was a bit of a pain to get out, but the second one is super easy.

Definitely look at the replacement grill to help you locate the tabs and how to push them.
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      06-19-2019, 03:08 PM   #245
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Thanks for the write up. Followed your instructions to the T and worked perfectly. Took 30 mins including cleaning and putzing. Removed trendy black grills and installed old fashioned chrome ones.. much nicer!
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      06-23-2019, 01:13 PM   #246
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Here's my black grille with the center painted the body color--mineral white.
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      06-25-2019, 10:59 AM   #247
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Quote:
Originally Posted by blackabass View Post
Honestly, I think BMW should stop fitting Chrome Kidney Grills to the F30s. Anyways this is my first ever retrofit. I hope to do much more soon on my Bleu MSport F30.

The first step get your grill. I got mine from here. → http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/231708287003

It arrived next day in the post.

Note
  1. You do not need to open the bonnet. I used my hand throughout and no issues or bruise. At some point, I thought of rubbing some cream to avoid bruises or friction on my skin but that didn't happen.
  2. There are 8 clips/lids/locks per grill. 3 at the top and bottom, 1 on both sides

Steps to retrofit
  1. Slide your hand through the grill carefully and pull the lids at the top down while you use the other hand to pull the grill slightly, from the front with little force.
  2. Do this for all 8 clips/lids/locks. Sometimes they go back inside as you do another so may be wedge the open ones with something once they are pulled out.
  3. Once you remove the first grill, the second is easy as you don't have to slide your hands through the grill anymore just put through the back from the side you just removed.
  4. Now that you have both grills removed, wipe the surface clean to remove any dirt.
  5. Place the new grill one at a time making sure the clips/lids/locks are in position then push gently till it goes in and clicks. Repeat same for the other grill and job done.

Pictures added soon as I am able to do so.

Cheers.

Next retrofit on my list.
  1. Glossy black AC Trim
  2. NBT2 EVO + iDrive 5
  3. Adaptive bi-xenon or LED
  4. LCI LED Backlights
Thank you!
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      11-13-2019, 12:37 PM   #248
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All of the grills look awesome! Nice work everyone. After seeing It I had to try it myself! [IMG][/IMG]I just ordered myself Grill replacements for my 16' 328i XDrive. I wanted to give it a sportier look, I think it does! $30 on eBay and took me 15 minutes to install with out taking out screws or messing with bumper. I was able to fit my hands in with a little clip and work my way around undoing the clips and then with a bit of a tug they came out. The second side is easy as you can get behind the grill once the other side is removed.
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