Auto body repair & detailing: Removing bottom front grill on 1998 BMW 323is

Question
Hi Dave,
I am hoping you can tell me how to go about removing the front bottom grill on a 1998 BMW 323is? I would like to paint it because it is chipped and peeling. Thanks so much for your help.
Sheila

Answer
Hi Sheila!....In order to remove the lower front portion of the bumper cover/ grille assembly, you will first need to remove the retainers which attach the fender wheelhouse splash shields, to the vertical edge of the cover. The vertical edge I am referring to, is the end of the bumper cover directly in front of the wheels. Once this is done, there should be a screw/bolt/retainer that is driven up vertically at the top rear edge of the cover, where it attaches to the front edge of the fender. Remove this as well. Next, check underneath the bumper cover, and remove all screws/bolts/retainers that attach it to the lower crossmember/rad support. Lastly, check inside the grill openings, as see if there are any other retainers that need to be removed also. The cover/grille assembly should now be able to be removed by simply pulling/sliding it straight forward. If it does not come off at this point, the upper grille frame assembly will need to be removed. This is to gain access to the top of the bumper cover, and remove the last of the retainers. The bumper cover will now be able to be removed.....If you have any other questions, or run into a problem, please do not hesitate to drop me another line....Thanks....Dave.