M3 Under Dash Trim

[Kelson]

Does anyone know for certain whether there were two different colours of under dash trim panel for the M3 (the panel that goes below the steering column down to the pedals).

My local dealer supplied me (incorrectly) with part number 51 45 1 917 353 which has a cut out for self leveling headlights (mine doesn't have them). However the panel was antracite which they say is the only colour used. But my original is definitely much greyer, both outside where it could have faded and inside where it most definitley would not have.

[Nostrils]

Mine appears to be a darker grey, certainly compared to the carpet - but it is 15 year old and could have faded a little!

How much did the part set you back!!

[Kelson]

Its quite suprising, most bits I have got new have not been as expensive as I would have expected (I guess it depends on your expectations). It was Ԛ£35.83 + VAT. I got a new Clutch switch for the cruise at the same time and that was just 6.94 + VAT

[cros]

I've noticed that too!

The center console (with the heating controls) also seems to come in subtly different shades.

Probably just down to age and how much polishing/silicone/cleaning the part has seen.

My second dash was light grey compared to the original one. It got much darker after being wiped down with a rag o' gunk.

[Nostrils]

I am surprised at that cost, excellent.

RealOEM shows different versions and colours.....I guess the one you have is all that is left.....will checking with another dealer give a different result?

http://www.realoem.com/bmw/showparts.do ... g=30&hl=29

[Kelson]

Trying Munich Legends as I type as I have the distinct feeling mine was whats described on OEM as Silver. However, they may have only been supplied on a few cars and are now NLA.

Its not a big deal as I wanted the new part as a spare for the car. I have cut the original to fit the navigation speaker (and before anyone thinks sacrilege, it had already been drilled for a fan override switch that I have removed having repaired the thermo unit - the speaker went in over the switch hole)

[cros]

BMW Silber is a light grey. Lighter than the carpet. Like the grey used in Windows for the taskbar and window backgounds.

That kick panel colour is for E30s that have light grey handbrake console, glove box & dash(?). M3 and motorsport cabs only I think.