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How to protect your BMW G90 G99 M5 radiators from Damage - Zunsport Mesh Grilles

How to protect your BMW G90 G99 M5 radiators from Damage - Zunsport Mesh Grilles - AUTOID

Huge Flaw with the G90 G99 M5

The BMW G90/G99 M5 is a masterpiece of engineering, a high-performance machine designed to thrill. But beneath that sleek exterior lies a vulnerability that every M5 owner must address: the exposed front end. Your M5's vital cooling components – radiators, oil coolers, and intercoolers – are sitting ducks for road debris, stones, and other hazards. A single impact can lead to costly repairs, and in the worst-case scenario, engine failure. That's why the Zunsport Mesh Grille Protection Kit, available at AUTOID, isn't just an accessory; it's an essential preventative modification.

Why is Protection So Critical?

Think about it: your M5 is designed for speed. The faster you go, the greater the force of impact from any object that strikes your front end. Even a small stone, kicked up at motorway speeds, can puncture a radiator or damage an oil cooler. This isn't just a theoretical risk; it's a common occurrence for owners of performance vehicles with exposed cooling systems.

  • Costly Repairs: Replacing a damaged radiator or intercooler on an M5 is not cheap. We're talking about potentially thousands of pounds in parts and labour. The Zunsport kit is a far more affordable upfront investment that can save you a significant amount of money in the long run.
  • Downtime: Even if you have comprehensive insurance, a damaged cooling component means your M5 is off the road. You'll be without your car while it's being repaired, which is a major inconvenience.
  • Performance Degradation: Even minor damage to a radiator can reduce its efficiency. This can lead to overheating, especially during spirited driving or track days, potentially impacting your M5's performance and longevity.
  • Engine Failure Risk: In the worst-case scenario, a significant impact can cause a catastrophic coolant leak, leading to rapid overheating and potential engine failure. This is the nightmare scenario every M5 owner wants to avoid.

The Zunsport Solution: Precision-Engineered Protection

AUTOID, in partnership with Zunsport, has developed a solution specifically for the G90/G99 M5. This isn't a generic mesh grille; it's a precision-engineered protection kit designed to:

  • Maximise Airflow: The stainless steel wire mesh is carefully chosen to provide maximum protection withoutrestricting airflow to your vital cooling components. Your M5's performance won't be compromised.
  • OEM Aesthetic: The gloss black finish seamlessly integrates with the M5's aggressive styling. It looks like it belongs there, enhancing the car's appearance while providing crucial protection.
  • Durable Construction: Made from high-quality stainless steel, these grilles are built to withstand the rigors of daily driving and track use. They're resistant to corrosion and damage, ensuring long-lasting protection.
  • Easy DIY Installation: The kit is designed for a straightforward installation.

Step-by-Step Installation Guide (with Video)

We understand that you might want to tackle this installation yourself. That's why we've provided a comprehensive video tutorial and step-by-step guide to walk you through the process.

Here's a breakdown of the installation process (based on the G87 M2, principles are similar, but consult Zunsport for G90/G99 specific instructions):

Tools required:

  • Ratchet (or impact gun)
  • 10mm socket
  • Pry tool (plastic trim removal tool recommended)
  • Phillips head screwdriver
  • Jack and axle stands (optional, but highly recommended for easier access to the oil cooler grille)

Important Note: This installation involves working underneath the car. If you're not comfortable with this, or lack the necessary tools and experience, professional installation is recommended. We offer a UK fitting service on all products sold on our store.

Step 1: Number Plate and Holder Removal

How to fit G90 G99 M5  Zunsport Mesh Protection Grilles
  1. Remove Number Plate: The number plate may be attached with 3M tape or screws. If it's 3M tape, carefully pull it off. If it's screwed on, remove the screws.

  2. Remove Number Plate Holder: There are three screws securing the number plate holder. Use a Phillips head screwdriver to remove these screws.

Step 2: Installing the zunsport Upper Grilles

How to fit G90 G99 M5  Zunsport Mesh Protection Grilles
  1. Grille Positioning: Each upper grille has an inner hook and an outer clip.

  2. Hook and Clip:
    • Hook the inner clip of the grille inside the bumper opening.
    • Push the opposite side (outer side) of the grille inward until the outer clip locks into place. You should hear a click.

  3. Secure (if needed): If the clip doesn't feel fully secure, use your pry tool to gently push the metal tab of the clip down, locking it more firmly.

  4. Repeat: Repeat the process for the other upper grille.

Step 3: Installing the zunsport Lower Grilles

How to fit G90 G99 M5  Zunsport Mesh Protection Grilles
  1. Clean Debris: Before installing the lower grilles, take a moment to clean out any existing debris (rocks, leaves, etc.) that may have accumulated in the grille openings. A vacuum cleaner is helpful here.

  2. Grille Positioning: Each lower grille has a hook on one corner and two clips on the opposite side.

  3. Hook and Clip:
    • Hook the corner hook of the grille into the bumper opening.
    • Push the two clips on the opposite side inward until they lock into place. You should hear a click.

  4. Secure: Gently push the tabs of the clips down to ensure they are fully locked.

  5. Repeat: Repeat the process for the other lower grille.

Step 4: Installing the Zunsport Oil Cooler Grille (Requires Lifting the Car)

How to fit G90 G99 M5  Zunsport Mesh Protection Grilles
  1. Lift the Car: Use a ramp, or a jack and axle stands, to safely lift the front of the car. Never work under a car supported only by a jack.

  2. Locate Bolts: Underneath the car, locate the four OEM bolts securing the oil cooler area: two on each side (towards the front) and two further back.

  3. Remove Bolts: Use your ratchet and 10mm socket to remove these four bolts.

  4. Position Grille: Align the oil cooler grille underneath the oil cooler.

  5. Reinstall Bolts: Use the OEM bolts you just removed to secure the Zunsport grille in place. Tighten them securely.

Step 5: Reinstall Number Plate Holder and Number Plate

How to fit G90 G99 M5  Zunsport Mesh Protection Grilles
  1. Align Holder: Align the number plate holder with the screw holes.

  2. Reinstall Screws: Use the three Phillips head screws to reattach the number plate holder.

  3. Reattach Number Plate: Reattach your number plate using either 3M tape (clean the surface first) or the original screws, depending on how it was originally mounted.

Step 6: Final Checks

  1. Grille Security: Double-check that all grilles (upper, lower, and oil cooler) are securely installed and that all clips are properly engaged.

  2. Bolt Tightness: Ensure all bolts (especially those securing the oil cooler grille) are tightened appropriately.

  3. Number Plate: Verify that this is secured.

You're done!

G90 M5 Fitted with Zunsport Mesh Protection Grilles

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