I'm new to the forum and wondering if anyone out there has any idea what the black "slits" on the rear bumper of the '04 5-series are all about? I have an '04 530i and was wondering if these areas can be painted or if there are painted inserts that can be purchased to cover the black areas up (I'd post a pic, but I'm apparently too new to the forum to do so). It appears as if a few pieces of my bumper actually fell off (got some grief over that this weekend). I know the '05-'07 5-series have what appear to be painted inserts. Also, any idea why they are there in the first place?

Any feedback would be appreciated.

Thanks,
JWG5

No idea of what you're talking about.

I'm sure you can change to the newer pieces if they were updated.

See if you can find the part on www.realoem.com

Thanks for the reply, 4500 RPM...

If you look at the pics under "Project E60 Completed..." below your reply, on the rear bumper below the taillights - looks like he inserted red reflectors. On my car, they are black holes/slits.

I'll try to dig em up on your link...

EUR E60s have red reflectors. These aren't approved in US. You can order red reflectors from your dealer.

You can also remove them, sand them down and paint them if you would like. I've seen both done.