"This entry documents my test fit of the prototype along with the first production run in 2021."
- Matt 

My specs. 

After internal testing was completed by Karbonius, the first pre-production unit was manufactured and shipped to me for documentation. Karbonius offered additional customization options over the original BMW Performance caps.  

I spec'ed my set in keeping with the 1:1 approach to replicating the BMW Performance units. They were 2x2 weave with high gloss finish. I received the caps in March 2021 and immediately proceeded with installation. 

Fitment notes.  

Removing the OEM caps is probably the most nerve racking part of the process. The original caps are made from ABS plastics. As such, make sure you work in a heated environment as it will loosen the clips and brackets hold onto the mirror housing. 

Apply gentle pressure at the edges all around. Pull, and then pull harder! Trim tools can be useful. Make sure to cover their edges to avoid damaging the paint. 

The pre-preg carbon mirrors are fitted and held solely by the 4x 3D printed brackets discussed in the previous entry. Align the brackets, and push - and push a little more.

A noticeable contrast.

The carbon caps make the side profile much cleaner by blending in with the shadowline trims, tinted windows and gloss black fender trims. They also perceptively lower the car by eliminating body colored parts at the horizontal edges of the car.  

Close ups. 

Close inspection will find perfect alignment across all edges. The carbon cap's thinner edges provide a levelled fitment with the mirror housing - a significant improvement over the original plastic caps. 

The continuous 2x2 weave is a beautiful attention to detail. It requires an experience carbon craftsman to achieve as alignment is most difficult on a highly curved part.

PPF recommendation. 

I eventually got the caps protected with PPF. Rock chips will damage the clear coat, and potentially the weave. Carbon weave cannot be aesthetically repaired to original aesthetics. I highly recommend you get them PPF'ed. 

I opted for a pre-cut after the photoshoot. It is realistically the best way to protect the caps without risking lifting edges and impacting fitment. 

Market success! 

Upon validation of the prototype, the crowdfunding was launched on EuroConnex.co to M3 V8 and 1M owners. 50x spots were made available and rapidly. 

Below are various pictures of the initial production process. You'll find units fresh out of the mold, ready for clear coat, wet sand, and polish. The 1x1 OEM matching weave can also be seen below.

The caps were left to cure after being polished to limit probabilities of any clear coat outgassing prior to packaging and shipping. 

Fitment issues and discontinuation. 

In late 2022, fitment issues were reported by customers. The 3D printed brackets had been misglued by Karbonius during production on certain batches. The units were ultimately warrantied. From my experience, Karbonius has always been great on warranty replacements. 

Later on, it was discovered the mold went out of tolerance. Karbonius opted to discontinue the product without a clear timeline for a new mold. And with that, we were back to square one.

In late 2024, I sourced a used BMW Performance cap and set out to re-create this product.

Up next: I document the development of this new option made in Germany.