BMW 3 Series E90 Rearview Mirror Shell Pair for 2006-2012 Model Years

This product is a pair of exterior rearview mirror shells, or housings, designed specifically as direct replacement parts for the BMW 3 Series E90. It addresses the need to refresh the external appearance of the vehicle's mirror assemblies when the original plastic housings become faded, scratched, or damaged. The set includes both left-hand and right-hand side covers, ensuring a matching update. It is manufactured to correspond with original equipment numbers, aiming for a fit that aligns with the factory specification for models built between 2006 and 2012, which encompasses two distinct body style periods.

Features and Construction

The shells are offered to restore the cosmetic finish of your BMW's mirrors efficiently. They are made to be installed directly onto the existing mirror mechanism, avoiding the cost and complexity of replacing the entire mirror assembly including glass and motors.

Material and Build

The housing shells are moulded from ABS plastic. This material is widely used in automotive applications for exterior trim components due to its good strength-to-weight ratio, resistance to weathering, and ability to be finished in various textures and colours. The product is available in two visual finishes: a standard solid black and a carbon fibre pattern, providing an aesthetic choice for vehicle owners.

Size and Practical Fit

It is critical to select the correct format for your specific vehicle model year. The product is categorised into two groups: one format is designed for BMW 3 Series E90 models from the 2006 to 2008 production years, and a separate format is for models from 2009 to 2012. This distinction is important as mirror housing shapes often change with mid-cycle model updates. The product references original equipment (OE) part numbers such as 51167135098, 51167135097 for the earlier format and 51167205291, 51167205292 for the later format to aid in correct identification.

Uses and Placement

This product serves a clear, practical purpose for BMW 3 Series E90 owners. It is not a universal fit item but a model-specific solution.

Event or Professional Use

For automotive detailers, body shops, or resellers preparing a vehicle for sale, these shells offer a cost-effective way to quickly improve a car's exterior presentation. Replacing scratched or sun-damaged mirror housings can significantly enhance the perceived condition and value of the vehicle without undertaking a full mirror unit replacement.

Everyday Home Use

For the individual car owner, this product provides a manageable DIY-friendly project to upgrade the look of their daily driver. Whether rectifying damage from a minor scrape or simply wanting to change the aesthetic to a carbon pattern finish, this pair of shells allows for a targeted refresh of the mirror assemblies. The supplied pair ensures both sides of the car are addressed uniformly.

Benefits and Buying Value

The primary value lies in its specificity and completeness as a solution for a common wear item on these popular BMW models.

Reuse and Low Maintenance

By replacing only the outer shell, the functional internal components of the mirror—the glass, heating element, and motorised adjustment mechanisms—are preserved and reused. This approach is typically more economical and environmentally considerate than replacing the entire mirror assembly. Once installed, the ABS plastic shell requires no specific maintenance beyond general car washing.

Why Choose This Product

This product is distinguished by its clear application targeting for two specific generations of the BMW 3 Series E90. The inclusion of relevant OE part numbers provides a reliable reference point for compatibility checking. Being sold as a complete pair eliminates the need to source left and right sides separately, ensuring colour and finish consistency. The choice between a standard black or carbon pattern finish also offers a degree of personalisation for the vehicle's exterior styling.