Anodizing the chrome bits on my BMW

[556129]

Hi GuysI've seen a lot of nice BMWs' with black anodized chrome bits, especially the window chrome borders. They look lovely on the m-sport models and complement the whole sporty look. I know most of these are factory fitted black bits, but for the less fortunate of us which have got too much bling on our cars, and cant afford to change em entirely:I'd like to ask for some advise for my E39 as I plant to do the Msport bodykit and the chrome just wont look as cool as the blackout look. I know just painting over the chrome will not last (unless someone has had good experience here). Has anyone managed to get the chrome bits anodized? how much and where can it be done? Thanks in advance.

 

[boonaroo]

well, there are a few options. you can spray it (which does not last that long). or a more long lasting (and very affordable) option is to get a matte black sticker(e.g. 3M) to cover the chrome parts. if done well, no one will ever tell the difference.

 

[andrewk]

Painted trims will last if the surface is properly prepared and the right primer is used. Most painters won't spend the time to do it well coz its tedious work for such small surface.

http://www.ehow.com/how_4422511_paint-over-chrome-surface.html

 

[556129]

well, there are a few options. you can spray it (which does not last that long). or a more long lasting (and very affordable) option is to get a matte black sticker(e.g. 3M) to cover the chrome parts. if done well, no one will ever tell the difference.

Thanks Boonaroo.. I think the affordable option of using tape sounds better to me. Do you know any workshops that are familiar with this sort of work?

 

[fabianyee]

Thanks Boonaroo.. I think the affordable option of using tape sounds better to me. Do you know any workshops that are familiar with this sort of work?

Drive to any accessory shops and see if they want to take on the job..
otherwise, can DIY.. Just need to go get the tapes.

 

[andrewk]

For the black andonized look, you can get it painted hyper black color. Will look really nice and tapes won't give you that effect. But be warned - once you paint on chrome, you can't go back. At least tape you still can peel off if you wanna go back to the chrome look.

Another option to consider is to use carbon fiber design tape rather than flat black tape. Will certainly look unique if you don't mind the "faux" CF look.

Not sure how much an accessory shop will charge for tape, but to paint your trims, you're looking at around RM400 - 500.

Some links for your info:-

http://www.strictlyeta.net/technical/shadowline.html

http://www.pelicanparts.com/BMW/techarticles/JF-Tech/Blacking_out_chrome_trim_E30_3Series.htm

 

[bmw7833]

Michael, what do u plan to do now? Paint them or tape them?