Side air vent

[davyk31]

Anyone else concerned by the open side air vent that runs from the rear of the front arch into the wing just in front of the front doors. There is no grille or anything on this and its completely open. As a clean car fanatic is this not going to let all the dirty road water spray right onto the side of the car and worse than that stones could easily be flicked through and they will hit the front doors.

Asked salesman about it who looked a bit vague and said he was sure BMW had thought of that. Am I missing something????

[kkx5]

Saw it too. did not like it at all...

[davyk31]

It really put me off today when I looked closely and I'm on the verge of ordering a 40d.

[X5Sport]

Considering all the issues with 20" wheels on the E70, I wonder if BMW will have to fit a protective film over the doors (as they did on the E70) or fit a grille inside?

Sometimes it seems that UK roads just are not properly catered for by manufacturers.

R

[davyk31]

I'm amazed there isn't a grille inside. That would stop stones and gravel but dirty water would still get through. Think I would need to find a way to block it altho need to be sure that doesn't cause any aerodynamic issues as the air could still come in the front vents.

Problem about a protective film is that it would need to be half way up the front doors. If this area does get chipped and sprayed under warranty it would need to be a oood match to ensure the colour match was perfect.

Not helping me want to sign an order form until I know if this is an issue.

[535dboy]

Interesting thought.

Not sure if it will be an issue or not.

[davyk31]

Its really hard to see how it wont be an issue as its a large hole from the wheel arch onto the side if the car. Also hard to see how BMW would miss it so kinda makes me think it will be ok BUT its all about aerodynamics and fuel efficiency and perhaps BMW have been willing to make a sacrifice for an extra little bit of economy. Need to test drive one on a wet day to see if the side gets sprayed with road water.

[535dboy]

To be honest mine got filthy within a few miles anyway.

[davyk31]

A bit of road water I can handle, its the potential for all the road grit and stones to be flicked off the front wheels at say 70 mph, through the gap and next stop the middle of the front door.

[kenniff]

well, if it is a problem, its going to be a biggie, as I think these are destined to appear on other models. I'm pretty sure the new 4 series coupe I was in the other week had these as well.
I'm not saying this COULDNT be a problem, but I will be amazed if its been overlooked.

As for the stone chips issue on E70s, I've owned an E70 for 4 years now and have no sign of the chip problem.

My car has had plenty of marks on it though, usually acquired while the car sits out on the road in front of the house, courtesy of parents who cant park or just like rolling to a stop by making my car bounce. Yes, there's a school in my street
)

[535dboy]

Yes 4 has them too

[davyk31]

Yes the 4 has them too, they are the new BMW feature it seems, all about efficiency. Is amazing if they haven't seen it as an issue unless economy overrules all but also impossible to see how an open gap won't cause a problem.

[davyk31]

kenniff, has your E70 20" wheels? The gravel rash issue only affects cars with 20" wheels at the rear arch and side sills.

[535dboy]

[quote="davyk31"]
kenniff, has your E70 20" wheels? The gravel rash issue only affects cars with 20" wheels at the rear arch and side sills.
[/quote]

Pre bmw applying film

[kenniff]

My E70 has the standard wheels - with the Msport 35d - I think they are 19"

My new F15 will have the standard wheels too. Not sure I really get this "must fit bigger wheels" approach. Horses for courses I suppose.