Rain gutter that runs from A to C Pillar

[illirep]

Does anyone know of options when the C pillar clips inevitably fail and BMW discontinued the gloss black replacement trim?

The local dealer ordered me the matte black version. Told me it was compatible. I had a body shop paint it gloss black, then call me and say it doesn't line up to the body and is not compatible. Then BMW wouldn't take it back since it was painted. I ate $400.

My hunch is that for some stupid reason, the matte black trim works only with the 325i or pre lci cars and the dealership catalogue is wrong. I also suspect the chrome trim would work, but that part is absurdly more expensive and I was told that paint may not adhere as nicely to the chrome even if prepared properly.

Anyone have ideas?

Thanks, Bill

[Vas]

Well that sucks that the shadow line C pillar trim is no longer available.

Are you able to compare the 2 parts side by side ?

[GeorgeH]

Coupe or sedan?

What part number did they order you and why "doesn't it line up?"

LCI sedan shows the following:

[John in VA]

The trim/molding comes as one piece, from A- to C-pillar, so should line up. Looks like all the moldings are discontinued - your friendly dealer parts guy might try a search to see if anyone has old stock.
I have a pair of the non-glossy black/schwarz moldings for a sedan new in box that never made it onto the 2000 328i.

[Vas]

The trim/molding comes as one piece, from A- to C-pillar, so should line up. Looks like all the moldings are discontinued - your friendly dealer parts guy might try a search to see if anyone has old stock.
I have a pair of the non-glossy black/schwarz moldings for a sedan new in box that never made it onto the 2000 328i.

Willing to let the set go?

[illirep]

It was the Schwartz trim above.

K2 industries makes a 3d printed clip replacement for c pillars. I ordered that a month ago and it is just leaving china this week. Will see if that works. Not holding my breath.

[GeorgeH]

I think your body shop has dropped the ball one way or another here. I would ask for more info as to why they don't fit. AFAIK tell they are all interchangeable.

[John in VA]

Willing to let the set go?

PM'd