I just recieved a MINIUSA parts bulletin detailing the release of new magnetic stone guards for the MINI. For those who are familiar with the BMW Z3 stone guards these are very similar. Here's the info from the actual MINIUSA bulletin (You can see the entire bulletin here):
Aftersales is pleased to announce the release of the Magnetic Stone Guards for the MINI. The Magnetic Stone Guards will protect the area in the front of the rear wheel against stone chipping, enhance the sporty design of the car and blen nicely with the black fender flares on the MINI. The stone guards can easily be installed by a customer. The kit includes two stone guards and detailed installation instructions. The MINI magnetic stone guards are only available in black
The part number for the stone guards is 82 11 0 304 813.
<p>Very nice, but I wonder if the backing material of the side that makes contact with the sheetmetal is of a special material that prevents “Ghosting” of the clearcoat finish?</p>
<p>The biggest problem about adding magnetic parts to a car is the possibility of damaging the clearcoat when these are left there for prolonged periods of time. This is yet another reason why I haven't added any bonnet magnetic strips, for example.</p>
<p>This is the same reason I haven't added magnetic stripes. I asked someone at MINI about these and clearcoat damage and he simply said MINI would never release something that could potentially do that kind of damage.</p>
<p>Had these since I picked up my MINI last May, so far no adverse effects. I have the 17″ wheels which tend to kick up more dirt and grime on the sides, particularly in the area where the magnetic guards are.<br />
Just don't forget to peel them off whenever you wash your MINI.</p>
<p>Cheers!</p>
<p>As always, theft could be an issue, too.</p>
<p>Theft is always a issue, but in the city it is good for a raining day! I dont think many people will steal a mud guard in a raining day.
Of course u'll never know.
I really wants it. Like i said good for a raining day at least! for 35 bucks! not bad!</p>
<p>I had magnetic stone guards on my '99 Z3, and the clearcoat was fine. I followed the instructions, and put a heavy layer of wax on the paint and on the magnet itself. Polishing lightly removed any ghosting, which was only on the wax, not the clear coat. YMMV.</p>
<p>.bob</p>
<p>“…only available in black”?</p>
<p>My friend gave me SILVER ones he no longer uses on his Z3. They fit my Cooper 98%-perfectly as-is, but I lost one (magnets loose grip @ 110mph). </p>
<p>Anyone know where I can buy another set in silver?</p>