New owner with exterior questions
 

I just purchased my son a 1995 BMW 318ti. I believe it's the sports model due to the M3 style front bumper. Here is my exterior questions (yes, I searched :) )

1. Both front and rear BMW emblems are worn. Are owners replacing emblems with OEM or aftermarket? If aftermarket, who has the best quality and price to purchase from?

2. Driver side fog lamp lens is broken but still illuminates. Can I replace just the lens or do I need to replace the entire fog lamp?

3. What is the most common problem with the 318ti metal sunroof? I was told by the previous owner the seal comes off and causes the sunroof to bind. I'm afraid to open the sunroof and cause a larger issue.

I have spent hours on this site and so far, I'm very impressed :biggrin:

Any help would be greatly appreciated :smile:

1. I would check with your local dealer for Roundels (the BMW round badge on hood/trunk) or contact one of the frequent people parting out wrecked Ti's. The hood roundel is common to all e36, not sure about the trunk.

2. You can replace just the bulb (i need to do this too) by sliding a knife into the gap alongside the lens (i think, going from memory). Think it hinged open to the back. pretty simple, not sure if you have to remove a lower plastic piece. I would be tempted to replace the whole lens too.

3. This is not that common really. You might start by lubing the tracks and see if it improves. I believe there is a fine tune adjustment accessible if you remove the headliner.

Sorry this is more anecdotal but it points you in the right direction.

New roundels can be purchased anywhere. They are cheap, just get some... Cali - front & rear are the same on the TI.

The fog lamps are in two pieces, the glass enclosure and the frame it sits in. You'll need a new glass enclosure. They can be purchased at lots of places. If you just need one, try the for-sale section here or on bf.c. They are a little pricey so be prepared. Do a search on Lamin-x too.

Not sure about #3. Its been a while since I had a regular sunroof.. :rolleyes:

Thank you!!!

I was planning to purchase the emblems from autopartswarehouse.com for $20 per emblem and the driver fog light (lens included) for $67.
http://www.autopartswarehouse.com/se...294966978+9372

I will cross my fingers I hope I don't make the sunroof worse when I start to troubleshoot the issue :shrug_no:

Do you have any suggestions where I can purchase the emblems and fog lamps for a better price?

Thanks!!!