Anyone installed BMW illuminated door sills? Need some tips!

Parts and Accessories
1

I’ve been looking into getting illuminated door sills for my BMW, and I’m curious about the best options available out there. Here are a few points I’d love to discuss:

Installation Tips

  • DIY vs Professional: Is it easy enough to install them myself, or is it better to have a professional do it?
  • Tools Required: What tools will I need for the installation, and are there any specific challenges I should be aware of?

Compatibility

  • Model Specifics: Do these illuminated sills fit all BMW models, or are there specific model years that they are compatible with?
  • Aftermarket vs OEM: How do the aftermarket options compare to OEM ones in terms of fit and finish?

Availability

  • Where to Buy: Any recommendations on where to purchase these? Are there specific retailers or online shops that you trust?
  • Pricing: What’s the general price range I should expect to pay for a quality set?

User Experiences

  • Real-Life Feedback: For those who have installed them, what has your experience been? Any issues encountered during or after installation?
  • Durability: How do they hold up over time? Are there any concerns I should be aware of?

I appreciate any insights or advice anyone can share. Looking forward to hearing your experiences!

3 Likes
2

I’ve installed the BMW illuminated door sills on my 5 Series, and it was worth it! Start by getting the right tools: a flathead screwdriver, plastic trim removers, and a 10mm socket for the screws. The whole process takes about an hour if you work methodically.

6 Likes
3

Thanks for sharing! Did you encounter any challenges during the installation, or was it pretty straightforward?

4

Make sure to disconnect the battery before starting—it’s a crucial step for safety. I forgot and nearly shocked myself! Also, take your time removing the existing door sills; they can be stubborn.

5

Good tip! Are there specific connectors I should be wary of when plugging in the new sills?

6

I installed mine last weekend! I found it helpful to watch a couple of YouTube videos beforehand. They really helped visualize the steps. Just be ready to get your hands a bit dirty.

1 Like
7

Which videos did you find the most helpful? It would save me some time to know which ones to look for.

8

I can’t remember the exact channel, but look for videos that specifically mention BMW illuminated sills. There are a few out there with great visuals and tips on issues they faced.

9

Be prepared for some annoying clips! They can be a hassle to remove without breaking them, so patience is key. I broke one on my first install and had to replace it.

10

Ugh, that sounds frustrating! Any specific brand of clips you recommend as a replacement?

11

Usually, you can find generic trim clips on Amazon that work fine! Just make sure they fit the specifications of your model. I also advise checking with a local parts supplier.

12

Great reminder! What would happen if they didn’t line up? Would it cause issues later on?

5 Likes
13

If they don’t line up, they can snap when the door closes or look uneven. It’s just best to take the extra few minutes to get it right the first time to avoid headaches later.

14

The final touch is to admire your work and enjoy the illuminated look at night! Honestly, it’s like a mini party when I get in my car after dark. Totally worth it!

15

Haha, love that! Might as well throw some disco lights in there too!

3 Likes
16

Remember, the installation can feel daunting, but with the proper tools and patience, it’s a satisfying project! Good luck to everyone doing this!

17

I’ve installed BMW illuminated door sills from a few brands, but I really liked the ones from 3D Design. They are super durable and easy to install! Plus, you can’t beat the glow at night.

5 Likes
18

That’s great to hear! What price point did you find for those 3D Design sills? I’m trying to figure out my budget.

19

I got mine for around $150. They were worth every penny, especially for the quality! You might find some cheaper options, but durability matters.

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I’ve heard some mixed reviews about other brands like M Performance. Anyone had luck with those? I’m more concerned about the durability.

1 Like