09-13-2011, 01:36 PM | #1 |
The one that drives!
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[DYI] [US x3 35i] My first mod: Euro side mirrors (aspherical)
So yesterday I finished my first mod. Unhappy with the performance of the factory set of mirrors and distracted by the unsightly warning on the passenger side mirror, I decided to order a set of Euro mirrors auto-dimming and heated.
That's what I started with: The Euro one on the left: The Euro one on the left again: Installation is a breeze. Just fold your mirrors all the way in (or in and down) and gently but firmly pry with your fingers the glass out. Then disconnect the heating/dimming connector and replace the glass. The connector in question depicted: First test, mirrors realigned using seat and side mirror memory function. Compare it with the pair of pictures above. Time for a road test. Pay attention how much more I can see. The blind spot got noticeably smaller and so the car got safer. I hope you liked it and if you have any questions or comments, please leave them below. I have the exact same type of mirrors on my other car, and because we were so used to them I needed to have them on my X3 too! The only downside is that it takes a few days getting used to, but once you do, those mirrors will be indispensable. There are a few more mods in the pipeline. My goal is to have an "OEM plus" car. Stay tuned! Mod history: 1. [DYI] [US x3 35i] My first mod: Euro side mirrors (aspherical) 2. [DYI] [US x3 35i] My second mod: Euro headlight switch (rear fog lights enabled) 3. [DYI] [US x3 35i] My third mod: BMW Performance glossy black grilles (kidneys) Last edited by dandanio; 10-22-2012 at 10:27 AM.. |
09-13-2011, 01:44 PM | #3 |
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dandanio - I like the use of the better Euro design spec. mods you have done/planning. One OEM mod I was planning was retrofit of the rear view camera. But until I get my F25 I can't be sure if its possible. I need to check if the AV cable is pre-installed behind the license plate lamp even if you dont spec the camera at the factory. If the cable is there, then I belive it will be possible to fit the camera easily.
All you need now is Euro front indicator lenses then you are complete. I am not aware of any other spec. differences, bar the engines of course. |
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09-13-2011, 02:02 PM | #4 | |
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Quote:
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09-13-2011, 02:11 PM | #5 | |
The one that drives!
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Quote:
Not to my own thread , but can someone please post any pictures of those? Like a close up? |
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09-13-2011, 02:13 PM | #6 |
The one that drives!
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I have a friend at a European dealership. The part number is the same for an X# as it is for an X1. So they are somewhat cheaper, still - quite expensive, especially that I needed both: dimming and heated.
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09-13-2011, 03:57 PM | #7 |
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Dont have my F25 yet for pictures, but take a look at a European members foto shoot on the forum. you will see Euro indicator lenses are 'clear', like headlights with a coloured lamp inside. I have read on this forum that they do not meet US regs. I think the configurator from the UK BMW site will shown them also.
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09-16-2011, 03:51 PM | #9 |
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That looks great. Why don't we get those in the US?
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2012 X3 35i | Mineral Silver | Oyster | Wave Wood
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11-05-2011, 08:46 PM | #12 |
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Sure would be nice to have them available here in the US . . . not that many drivers seem to know how to use their mirrors or that they have them!
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11-06-2011, 12:46 PM | #13 | ||
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Very nice, not only does it reduce blind spots but also looks nicer.
However I've noticed that the US spec mirror is of a higher magnification than the Euro spec one, has this affected your driving or ability to see in any way? Quote:
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1. Replace the whole housing w/ Euro spec ones 2. Apply a decal over the orange section. Option 1 could potentially be very expensive and perhaps hard to install, I'm sure it'll at least set you back a couple hundred. Option 2 is much cheaper. I can't remember if there's a thread where there is a link to buy silver decals but I did find one where you can buy black ones. I'm sure if you keep this thread going or post a new one someone on here could answer you question. http://www.bimmian.com/25/HRO/ Not really a close up but this was the best I could find. |
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11-07-2011, 09:54 PM | #14 | |
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As for the orange reflector, I am already on the lookout for a set of EU-spec xenons, should have them here by xmas. Will report with pictures. |
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11-14-2011, 09:08 PM | #16 |
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12-15-2011, 01:29 PM | #19 | |
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Side-View Euro Mirrors for 2011 335ix
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I know I am in the X3 forum and I've been having the same issues with blind spots in side-view mirrors on my 2011 BMW335ix. Could you, possibly, address me to where I could order/buy the euro-type glass for these mirrors? I would appreciate you assistance. |
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04-18-2012, 09:56 AM | #20 |
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Just seen this and thought you might like to know that there is a Genuine BMW run EBAY shop you could order from? http://stores.ebay.co.uk/bmwdirectstore/pages/form
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10-11-2012, 10:11 AM | #22 |
The one that drives!
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If you are looking for a good source of Euro parts, contact Chris (Parts and Accessory Department Manager at BMW AutoPremium in Rzeszow, Poland at: kdepa (at) bmw-autopremium (dot) pl He gave me permission to share his details and will work with you on price, payment and shipment to your address.
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aspherical mirrors, bmw x3, dyi, usa |
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