BMW has released Service Information Bulletin SIB 51 32 18, Revision 3, to address a common issue affecting the paint finish on the B-pillar door jamb in various 2021-2024 models. This bulletin supersedes SI B51 32 18 dated February 2023, indicating an update to the repair procedure, parts, and claim information.

Owners of affected vehicles may notice their BMW B-pillar paint scratched, specifically on the door jamb area. This issue is covered under the BMW New Vehicle Limited Warranty for Passenger Cars and Light Trucks.

Symptoms

The primary symptom is visible paint damage on the door jamb, specifically above the door striker, on the B-pillar. This damage appears as a scratched or scuffed area.

Cause

The root cause of the BMW B-pillar paint scratched condition is the inner door cavity window seal. Over time, the rubber material of this seal can become abrasive. As the door is opened and closed, the abrasive seal repeatedly scuffs against the door jamb, leading to paint damage.

Repair Procedure Summary

To correct the "PAINT ON THE B-PILLAR IS SCRATCHED/DAMAGED" issue, technicians will follow a multi-step process:

1. Paint Repair: The first step involves repairing any existing damaged paint on the affected door jamb area. This may include polishing or refinishing the paint as necessary.
2. Template Preparation: A specific template, corresponding to the vehicle series, must be printed. Technicians are instructed to verify the template's size using a 100 mm benchmark line and rescale if needed to ensure accuracy.
3. Protective Film Application: The template is then traced onto a protective film, part number 51 77 7 404 141. This traced design is carefully cut out.
4. Surface Cleaning: Before application, the door jamb area is cleaned using Cleaner R2 (part number 83 19 0 417 324) or isopropyl alcohol.
5. Film Installation: Finally, the adhesive backing is removed from the protective film, and it is installed in the designated area on both front doors to prevent future scratching.

Required Tools or Parts

Several specific parts are required for this repair:

• Protective Film: Part number 51 77 7 404 141 (Quantity: 2)
• Cleaner R2 (500 ml): Part number 83 19 0 417 324 (Quantity: As needed)

For G22 and G23 models, specific protective films are required:

• G22/G23 Protective Film Left: Part number 51 21 5 A83 403 (Quantity: 1)
• G22/G23 Protective Film Right: Part number 51 21 5 A83 404 (Quantity: 1)

Claim Information and Warranty Coverage

This repair for the BMW B-pillar paint scratched issue is covered under the terms of the BMW New Vehicle Limited Warranty. The repair code for this action is 5191905400, labeled as "Paint on side frame scratched."

Technicians will use specific labor operation codes for claim submission:

• Work Package #1 (Plus work): 00 63 647, "Attach paint protective film to side frame door aperture on both sides (Plus work)" – 5 FRU.
• Work Package #2 (Main work): 00 63 113, "Attach paint protective film to side frame door aperture on both sides (Main work)" – 6 FRU.

For consequential paint refinish repairs, a sublet code 3 for "Paint finish repairs" allows for third-party invoices up to $300.00, with a lump-sum fee of 1 FRU for photo documentation (00 58 999).

Important Notes for Owners

• This repair has been added as a required WarrantyApp item as of November 2023 when a consequential paint refinish repair is needed.
• BMW's Aftersales Area Manager (AAM) “Field Authorization” (FAS) is not required for this specific repair.
• Dealers are responsible for reviewing repair cost estimates to ensure they are consistent with customary, fair, and reasonable charges, and do not exceed the scope of the bulletin.

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Source: NHTSA ID: 10245372