Bonnet BMW E46 Sedan Touring Facelift from 2001 M3 Look

M3-style bonnet (hood) for a facelift (LCI) E46 Sedan or Touring (2001–2005) is a bit of a technical puzzle. Because the E46 M3 was only built as a Coupe or Convertible and never received a “facelift” in the way the Sedan did, a standard M3 bonnet will not fit your car without significant modification.

To get that “M3 Look” (the iconic central power dome), you have three main options for a 2001+ facelift Sedan/Touring:

1. The “M3 Look” Aftermarket Bonnet (Best Fit)

The easiest way is to buy a bonnet specifically molded for the Facelift Sedan/Touring chassis but featuring the M3 power dome.

• Design: These have the M3 “bulge” but are shaped to meet the facelift headlights (which have the “tear-drop” upward curve) and the wider facelift kidney grilles.

• Materials: * FRP (Fiberglass): Usually the most affordable but requires a professional body shop to “prep and prime” for a clean finish.

  • Carbon Fiber: Often available in “M3 GTR” style (with extra vents). Brands like Seibon or CMST Tuning are common, though often listed for Coupes, so you must verify the “4-door Facelift” fitment.

     

• Key Benefit: No welding or cutting required; it bolts onto your factory hinges.

2. The “Power Dome” Weld-In (Budget/Custom)

If you want to keep your original high-quality steel bonnet, many enthusiasts buy an M3 Power Dome “skin” or cut the bulge out of a damaged M3 bonnet.

• The Process: A body shop cuts a hole in your standard facelift bonnet and welds in the M3 hump.

• Pros: You retain perfect factory fitment at the headlights, fenders, and grilles because it’s your original hood.

• Cons: Labor-intensive and requires high-quality paint work to ensure the welds don’t show or rust over time.

3. Technical Fitment Warning: Why OEM M3 doesn’t fit

If you find a “Genuine BMW E46 M3 Hood” (Part No. 41617894223), be aware:

• Headlight Gap: The M3 hood was designed for pre-facelift style headlights. On your 2001+ facelift Sedan, there will be a massive, unsightly gap where the hood meets the lights.

• Width: The M3 hood is slightly wider to accommodate the M3’s flared fenders. On a standard Sedan, it may overhang the fenders.

• Grilles: You would have to switch to M3-style kidney grilles, which may not align with your facelift bumper.

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