2013 550i roof rack mechanism covers

[tmod]

I'm a new owner of a 2013 550i. I purchased it from a private seller and it came with the Thule roof rack. When I took off the roof rack, I discovered that one of the flip up covers in the roof molding was missing. When the roof rack is off, there is hole now instead of the cover giving it a finished off look. These are the covers that I have read about online that will pop open sometimes if going through a car wash. I have been searching the internet trying to find a replacement cover, but having no luck. I did see a comment online from someone that I might have to get a complete roof molding piece, when I only need the small piece to cover the opening. Has anyone run into this problem? Does anyone have any suggestions on how to get a replacement cover only if possible? Thanks!

[Critter7r]

The covers aren't offered separately, at least not by BMW. The comment about replacing that entire roof molding is correct. The good news is that they're easy to replace. The bad news is that they're not cheap and they have to get painted.

[tmod]

Crap! Not the answer I was hoping for. I figured that it couldn't be as easy as just replacing the cover. I talked to the previous owner and keeping my fingers crossed that he can find it, so if anything I can glue it back on. Do you know if there is a way to get the part number without having to take the piece off of the car? My thought is that I could then look for it online and maybe save a few bucks and not have to get it directly from BMW dealership. Then I could have my local body shop paint it for me. Thank you for the information and any further advice you may have.

[Critter7r]

realoem.com

[tmod]

Great. Thank you!