[Army Chief]

One of the most celebrated bits of lore in the E46 M3 world has to do with BMW M's limited run (less than 1,400 units) of über-M3s, manufactured between June and December of 2003. These models, known as the M3 CSL (Coupe Sport, Lightweight), underwent an aggressive weight reduction campaign even as they were infused with still more power and even sharper handling characteristics than their garden-variety cousins. The result was a car that instantly established itself as the Holy Grail of contemporary M3s.

There was a problem, however; owing to the small production run, and the complications of clearing DOT and EPA standards for the domestic market, BMW never imported the CSL into the United States. An already scarce machine was suddenly altogether unobtainable in BMW's most lucrative market.

All of the enthusiasm generated by the CSL quickly found a new outlet, as demand for some of the M3 CSL-only components skyrocketed. The BBS wheels, the carbon fiber rear diffuser, the front bumper cover, the trunk lid ... all of these unique parts were in heavy demand, and yet, seemingly nowhere to be found.

This lack of available OEM spares was no accident: since the moment the CSL was unveiled, BMW M instituted a no-nonsense close-hold policy on virtually every CSL part. Distribution centers (DZs) in Europe were given strict protocols for processing CSL parts orders, and required photocopy proof of ownership before a part could even be shipped to a factory dealership.

Inevitably, confusion set in, and rumors began circulating that, in order to get a CSL part, one had to have a CSL VIN (Vehicle Identification Number). Internet discussion boards around the world came alive with the story, though in reality, this was only a half-truth. A VIN was (and is) required, but without an accompanying hardcopy registration document for the car, the DZs would still not ship the parts.

Many people -- particularly in the United States -- embarked upon a predictable journey: they went to their local BMW dealership, armed with CSL part numbers, and placed expectant orders for all manner of CSL parts. Less knowledgeable dealers accepted the orders and attempted to push them through the system. The outcome in most every case was the same: after a few months of hopeful waiting, the inevitable response from Munich would come: "we're sorry, but we cannot fill your order."

Meanwhile, some legitimate CSL parts were beginning to show up in various places -- albeit at prices that were about a half-step ahead of highway robbery. What was generally not known at the time was that these were being sourced by savvy CSL owners who were using their special status to make a few Euros on the side by buying and reselling the restricted parts. This ran counter to BMW's distribution rules, of course, and was always a hit-or-miss strategy. Given enough money and enough waiting, you could probably find most of what you were after, but it was far from a painless process.

That pretty much remains the case today. BMW still won't sell you the parts. Most CSL owners have long since realized that openly flaunting the rules and reselling components is likely to get them into trouble with BMW AG. The overseas loopholes have been systematically shut down. What was never particularly easy has now become downright difficult.

Recognizing the consistent market demand (and scarcity of OEM components), a number of aftermarket suppliers began cloning the most popular CSL body panels. Rear diffusers seemed to show up first, and these were quickly followed by front bumper skirts and trunk lids. It's become a big business, and one which many of our M3 Forum sponsors can assist you with, should you be on the hunt for a quality CSL cloned part.

The only rule of thumb with these cloned parts -- as with most everything else in life -- seems to be that "you get what you pay for," so be wary of irresistable bargains and fly-by-night resellers. Still, some afterrmarket vendors are producing parts that rival the originals for quality, and are deserving of a second look. Just be prepared to pay.

If you've made it this far, here's the recap ...

a) OEM CSL parts are not legally available to non-CSL owners. This is a BMW policy which has never changed.
b) Having a CSL VIN in your pocket gets you nowhere. Knowing the OEM part numbers won't really help, either.
c) If you have enough money and a great deal of time, you might be able to find what you're after in OEM trim if you are extremely lucky and/or dealing with the right person; otherwise ...
d) ... the best course of action is generally to find a cloned component from a vendor with a reputation for good quality and superior fitment.

Hopefully, this will put to rest some of the more basic questions that we see cropping up around here every week, and help you help yourself if you happen to be one of those looking for a must-have CSL part for your M3.

Chief ... on behalf of the M3 Forum Staff

[suprauto]

thanks for the post.

informative.

[BlueBullet328]

awesome thread I never knew this I always thought people went after market for CF and cheaper prices, I found this very imformative!!

[M3nodrft]

Wow, finally someone posted up the entire reason why CSL parts are so hard to source. This is crazy, I have a friend who owned a silver-gray E46 M3 on BBS RGRs with FULL CSL interior, oem. REAL CSL exterior as well. He must have gone to hell & back to receive the shipment.

[Iversingh395]

niceee

[JUNIOR_INIZIO]

thanks!

[bmw_mthr33]

i love csl parts

[daytonaviolet]

csl parts are for posers

[bmw_mthr33]

well, that makes me wanna be one!

[soulintake]

CSL