BMW 3 Series E90 Rearview Mirror Shell Cover Pair for 2006-2012 Models

This product is a direct replacement exterior housing, or shell, for the door-mounted rearview mirrors on the BMW 3 Series E90. Designed to cover the mirror mechanism and provide a finished look, it is manufactured from ABS plastic and sold as a complete pair for both sides of the vehicle. It is offered in two distinct variants to match different model years: one for vehicles produced between 2006 and 2008, and another for those from 2009 to 2012. Each variant corresponds to specific original equipment (OE) part numbers, ensuring correct fitment and styling alignment. The shells are available in either a standard black or a carbon pattern finish, allowing owners to refresh damaged housings or update the aesthetic of their car's mirrors with a straightforward replacement installation.

Features and Construction

This mirror shell set provides a practical solution for BMW 3 Series E90 owners needing to address cosmetic damage, wear, or a desire for a visual refresh on their vehicle's side mirrors. It is a direct, part-for-part replacement that avoids the complexity and cost of replacing the entire mirror assembly, including glass and motorised components.

Material and Build

The housing is constructed from ABS plastic, a material commonly used in automotive exterior applications. ABS offers a balance of rigidity and impact resistance, helping the shell maintain its shape and protect the internal components. The finish is designed to match the factory appearance, whether in a solid black colour or a carbon fibre-look pattern, providing an OEM-style update to the vehicle's profile.

Size and Practical Fit

The product is specifically engineered for the BMW 3 Series E90 platform. It is crucial to select the correct variant based on your car's model year: the 2006-2008 version (compatible with OE numbers 51167135098 and 51167135097) or the 2009-2012 version (compatible with OE numbers 51167205291 and 51167205292). The shells come as a matched left and right pair, guaranteeing colour consistency and symmetrical fitment on both sides of the car. The complete package measures 27cm by 20cm by 15cm and weighs 500 grams.

Uses and Placement

This component serves a clear, functional role in vehicle maintenance and aesthetics. It is a repair part intended for owners who wish to address specific issues with their mirror housings without undertaking a more extensive replacement project.

Event or Professional Use

For automotive body shops, detailers, or independent technicians, this product offers a time-efficient part for mirror housing repairs following minor collisions or vandalism. Its direct replacement nature and clear model-year specification simplify parts sourcing and installation for professional servicing, allowing for a cosmetic repair that maintains the vehicle's original lines and finish.

Everyday Home Use

For the car enthusiast or DIY owner, this shell pair enables a garage project to refresh aged or scratched mirror housings. The replacement installation method is typically more accessible than full mirror assembly work, making it a feasible undertaking for those with moderate mechanical skill. It provides a cost-effective way to improve the car's exterior appearance, whether restoring it to original condition or opting for the carbon pattern style variant.

Benefits and Buying Value

The core value of this product lies in its targeted functionality. It addresses a specific need—replacing the mirror housing—without requiring investment in unnecessary additional components or complex fitting procedures.

Reuse and Low Maintenance

By replacing only the damaged exterior shell, the existing, often fully functional mirror glass, adjustment motors, and heater elements can be retained and reused. This approach reduces waste and cost. Once installed, the ABS plastic shell requires no specific maintenance beyond general cleaning, aligning with the low-care nature of standard automotive exterior plastics.

Why Choose This Product

This product is selected for its precise application: it is not a universal fit item but a model-specific part with documented OE number compatibility. This specificity reduces the risk of incorrect fitment. The inclusion of both left and right housings in the package ensures a uniform result. The availability of two finishes (black and carbon pattern) provides a choice between OEM-standard replacement and a subtle style update, allowing the buyer to decide based on their preference and the car's existing trim.