Original BMW Headlight Bulb Access Cover for BMW 2 Series, 3 Series, 4 Series Gran Coupe, M2, M3, and M4 (2012–2021)

Sitting in the inner fender liner of the front wheel well, the Original BMW cover for bulb change closes the opening used to reach the headlight bulbs on 2012–2021 BMW 2 Series, 3 Series, 4 Series Gran Coupe, M2, M3, and M4 models. Fender liners shield the engine bay, wiring, and suspension from water, gravel, and road grime, and an access cover lets you service parts behind the liner without removing it. When this cover goes missing or is left off after a bulb change, dirt and debris can get into the headlight bulb chamber. It weighs 75 grams, is made in Hungary, and is sold as a single piece.

Original BMW Parts carry a 24-month parts warranty.

Part number 51-71-7-260-397 supersedes the earlier 51-71-8-061-295, and BMW marks it exchangeable retrospectively, so it is the correct replacement for cars that came with the older cover. BMW's parts data shows production beginning in July 2011 and uses this same cover across a wide range of chassis: F22 and F87 in the 2 Series and M2, F30, F31, F34, and F80 in the 3 Series and M3, and F32, F36, and F82 in the 4 Series and M4. Engine choice makes no difference to fitment here.

Technical Details

• Manufacturer: BMW
• Part number: 51-71-7-260-397
• BMW part name: Cover for bulb change
• Location: inner fender liner, front wheel well
• Replaces: 51-71-8-061-295, exchangeable retrospectively
• Weight: 75 g (0.2 lb)
• Production start: July 2011
• Country of manufacture: Hungary
• Sold as: one piece
• Warranty: 24 months

Common Questions

Does this replace 51-71-8-061-295?
Yes. BMW supersedes the older cover with this number and rates it exchangeable retrospectively.

What happens if the cover is left off?
Dirt and debris can enter the headlight bulb chamber through the open access hole.

Fitment & Compatibility

Use the fitment table below to confirm year, make, model, submodel, and any notes tied to your exact vehicle. Pay close attention to engine, chassis, position, and option-specific details before ordering. PMB Performance can confirm this against your VIN, backed by more than 20 years of parts and fitment work.