Wheel arch access panel clips, £14 each = no

[firefoxchris]

Afternoon all!

I have been replacing a sidelight/angel eye bulb today (through the wheel arch...fun!). Some of the access panel clips are quite brittle (one snapped) in the wheel arch, and some are missing.

Does anyone know where you can get some at a reasonable price, I probaby need 2 or 4 of them? I had a quick look on eBay and someone is selling them for over £14 EACH!! https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/174585051064. You can get the whole panel with two clips for £23! https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/203149962855?epid=1109530864

On a side note, I think it was the first time replacing the side light bulbs in over 180,000 miles, chuffed with that. It did cost me the whole of a Sunday morning though trying to get them out, realising I had the wrong ones and starting all over again Live and learn I guess.

Cheers,

Chris

[Darkangelv2]

Always check your local dealership - I find them cheapest for nearly all small fasteners compared to eBay etc.

[Umfaan]

Try this supplier https://www.pantritrading.com

[1536Z4]

Try this supplier https://www.pantritrading.com

Thats the same place but probably cheaper as no ebay fee but might be the same with delivery

[darich]

Check the for sale section....there was a member selling a whole selection of clips and brackets.

And just to add..I've removed the front bumper on the E86.....it's easier than you think and makes any jobs relating to lights or washer system so much easier and quicker.

[firefoxchris]

Thanks all, I've sent the message, will see what they come back with.

@darich - is there anything scary like airbag sensors you have to be wary of with that?

[enuff_zed]

Thanks all, I've sent the message, will see what they come back with.

@darich - is there anything scary like airbag sensors you have to be wary of with that?

6 or 7 torx bolts along the top edge, a few 8mm screws underneath, pop the ends out carefully from the plastic retaining clips on the wings, then ease it forward and rest it on the ground while you disconnect the fog lights. that's it.
Sometimes the foglight plugs are on tight so it's easier to twist and unplug the bulb still attached to the loom. Be careful not to touch the bulb and wrap it in a poly bag.

[enuff_zed]

firefoxchris, just checking, do you mean the plastic 'rivets' that hold the liner to the wheel arch, or the twist fit lugs that you have to turn to release the access panels?

[firefoxchris]

twist fit lugs

Thats the words I was trying to find!

[enuff_zed]

twist fit lugs

Thats the words I was trying to find!

These bits?
Doesn't look like you can get fasteners separate.

Looking at the diagram it looks like the fasteners are attached to the inner wing liner but i honestly can't remember.

I'd suggest asking umfaan, bigwinn, street, or GenZed if they can help you with a replacement panel.

Screenshot 2024-01-22 105650.png (128.37 KiB) Viewed 302 times

[firefoxchris]

Interesting! It looks slightly different to mine. Part #10 on the diagram is more like a nut, whereas mine are like this ..

https://i.ebayimg.com/images/g/b94AAOSw ... -l1600.jpg

On the other side of it, it has a slot for undoing them with a 2 pence peice sized slot.

Theres a few photos on this listing that show both sides of the panel..

https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/203149962855

[enuff_zed]

Interesting! It looks slightly different to mine. Part #10 on the diagram is more like a nut, whereas mine are like this ..

https://i.ebayimg.com/images/g/b94AAOSw ... -l1600.jpg

On the other side of it, it has a slot for undoing them with a 2 pence peice sized slot.

Theres a few photos on this listing that show both sides of the panel..

https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/203149962855

No that's correct. Items 4 & 5 are what you need. Does look like the nut is a part of the panel though, so that's easier.
Hopefully one of the gang will have one. I don't, sorry.

[firefoxchris]

No worries, thanks for figuring it out enuff_zed!

[GenZed]

Many thanks enuff_zed
yes I do have the parts 4&5

£15 posted

[enuff_zed]

Many thanks enuff_zed
yes I do have the parts 4&5

£15 posted

firefoxchris, that's a decent deal. Make sure you get the correct side.