2020 BMW 3-Series panel modifications

[Exact-Oh]

Bad news.  BMW stopped using their typical top panel clips starting in 2020 on the 3- series at least, requiring a full panel removal. 

 

I'm not sure about 2019 models yet, but I own a 2018, and that car has the top clips we all know and love. 

 

For the 2020, there are 2 screws to remove; one behind the door handle and one under the arm rest (no need to remove the arm rest,  it's hard to see underneath there).

 

The perimeter clips are what I call the 'VW' style clips, except for one standard clip.   They're the 2- stage panel clips that must be popped out before reassembling the panel on the door. 

 

Take care on the brake light,  that's like earlier models with the cover popping down, starting in the rear, and the lamp itself has clips on each side, close to the glass, that must be slid out towards the side, away from the lamp. 

 

Simple car still, but I'll be missing the old top panel clips, negating the requirement to pull the panels. 

 

Edited July 4, 2021 by Exact-Oh

[The ///Man]

You can still pull the panel back. Just be careful because the panel is thin and the part that locks in is likely glued to it.