Best Used BMW Accessories Upgrades Under £500 (UK)
Image: BMW X5 series pair of high gloss shadowline roof rails, F15, F85 models, for just £180.49
If you love the way your BMW drives but wish it felt a touch newer, smarter, or more you, you don’t need four figures to make it happen. In the BMW accessories scene, a smart £100–£500 spend on used BMW accessories in the UK (genuine OEM take-offs) can transform the car you live with every day. Below, I’ll walk you through the upgrades that deliver the most “wow per pound,” where they make the biggest difference, and how to source them, mostly from MT Auto Parts.
Why buy used OEM accessories (from a proper breaker)?
Because they fit, they last and they look right. Genuine trim from a specialist breaker like MT Auto Parts usually come off low-mileage cars, are photographed clearly and are backed by a straightforward warranty/returns policy. That means you get the OEM look and feel without main-dealer prices. And you avoid the gamble of no-name plastics that don’t clip or colour-match.
In short: BMW accessories from a trusted dismantler keep quality high and costs low.
High-impact upgrades under £500 (that you’ll actually notice)
1) Genuine mats & boot liners (daily life, sorted)
Rubber all-weather mats and cargo liners are the highest ROI upgrade in the entire BMW accessories world. Your carpet stays mint, the car feels fresh and resale photos pop.
Look for OEM part numbers to match your generation (E/F/G).
Tip: choose raised-edge rubber sets for winter or wet gear; velour for a premium look.
2) Black kidney grilles (clean, modern face)
The classic BMW “de-chrome” move. Factory black grilles instantly modernise F- and G- generation fronts without screaming “aftermarket.”
Install is usually clip-in; inspect tabs in listing photos.
3) Subtle rear lip spoiler (OEM look > overkill)
A slim boot-lid lip in factory paint or carbon-style transforms the side profile and rear three-quarter, especially on coupes and saloons.
Choose the line that suits your model: M-Performance style for drama, slim OEM for factory-plus.
4) Roof bars (weekend utility in 10 minutes)
Genuine bars with the correct feet for your chassis give you bikes, boards, or a roof box. All without rattles or trim marks when fitted correctly.
If you do family trips, this is the sleeper upgrade that makes your BMW feel like two cars in one. Great pick for BMW 3 series and BMW 5 series accessories.
5) M-style BMW steering wheel (wheel only)
The wheel (without airbag) often comes in under £500 when sourced used. Thicker rim, better thumb grips and a premium feel, every drive improves.
Check stitching colour, paddle cut-outs and button layout match your car. (Airbags are regulated, reuse your compatible unit and follow safety procedures.)
6) Ambient trim & interior details
Genuine LED light strips, door sill plates, aluminium or gloss interior trims: small pieces that massively lift perceived quality.
Because they’re OEM, the grain, gloss and fit match the rest of your cabin.
7) OEM storage & convenience bits
Sliding armrests, cupholder kits, cargo nets, and under-floor trays. Not glamorous, but you’ll use them daily.
For BMW 2 series and BMW 1 series accessories, these little factory add-ons make smaller cabins feel much smarter.
8) Exhaust tips & rear diffuser (subtle stance)
Genuine tips and factory-style diffusers are a safe way to sharpen the rear without drone or mishaps.
Look for listings with intact tabs and uncracked paint; ask for close-ups of clip points.
Where to find them (and what to look for)
Start at MT Auto Parts (mtautoparts.com ) and filter by your series (1/2/3/5), body style, and generation (F/G/U). You’ll see:
Clear photography (front/back/clip points),
Part numbers for easy VIN cross-check,
Condition notes and warranty/returns information.
When buying BMW accessories, ask yourself:
Fitment — Does the part number match my VIN/generation?
Condition — Scratches, chips, broken tabs? (Zoom in.)
Completeness — Are clips/gaskets/brackets included?
Finish — Painted parts: colour code match vs wrap/paint plans.
Returns — A simple safety net if it’s not right.
Best picks by series (quick hits)
BMW 1 Series (F20/F40): mats, black grilles, rear lip, interior trim swaps; compact footprint means small changes look big.
BMW 2 Series: coupe shape loves a lip spoiler and M-style wheel; OEM ambient trim elevates the cabin.
BMW 3 Series (E90/F30/G20): roof bars for real-life utility, grilles for face-lift feel, mats/boot liners to protect daily value.
BMW 5 Series: mats + boot liner = executive tidy; roof bars + box = family tourer; ambient trim modernises the night drive.
New vs used vs aftermarket (the quick philosophy)
Used OEM (from MT Auto Parts) — best balance of price, fit and longevity.
New OEM — perfect for items safety-critical components.
Aftermarket — great for styling if you choose proven brands with good fit; avoid no-name plastics.
Moreover, high-quality aftermarket parts can perform exceptionally well and offer great value, just stick to reputable brands and check return policies.
Fitting & coding (keep it simple)
Most accessories here are bolt-on: mats, grilles, spoilers, roof bars, trims.
BMW Steering wheels: disconnect battery and follow airbag procedures; if you’re unsure, use a pro.
Ambient lighting/electronics: may require basic coding; MT Auto Parts can advise what’s included with the part (looms, modules, etc.).
What I’d buy first (under £500, real-world impact)
Rubber mats + boot liner (protect value from day one).
Black kidney grilles (instant face-lift).
Rear lip spoiler (factory-plus silhouette).
Roof bars (turns your saloon/touring into a weekender).
M-style wheel (rim only) if you’re hands-on every day.
Two weekends, a few simple installs and your BMW will look and feel like it jumped a generation.
Conclusion
You don’t need a huge budget to make your BMW feel fresher, smarter and more “you.” With the right BMW accessories: mats and boot liners, black kidney grilles, a subtle rear lip, roof bars, or an M-style steering wheel, you’ll see (and feel) a big upgrade for under £500. Sticking to genuine OEM pieces keeps the fit and finish factory-perfect and buying from a trusted BMW breaker means you get photos, part numbers and warranty for peace of mind.
If you’re ready to start, head to mtautoparts.com and browse by your series (1/2/3/5) and generation (F/G/U). Check the part number against your VIN, review the condition notes and add the pieces that match your daily life. Two or three simple installs later, your BMW will look cleaner, feel newer and still owe you less than a dealer accessory bill.
FAQ
Are used accessories safe to buy?
Yes, when they’re genuine OEM from a reputable breaker with photos, part numbers and a warranty (e.g., MT Auto Parts).
Will these fit my exact BMW?
Match the part number to your VIN and generation (E/F/G). If in doubt, ask the seller to confirm fitment.
What shouldn’t I buy used?
Airbags and some safety-critical parts, stick to new OEMs. Cosmetic, trim and utility accessories are ideal used buys.
Do I need coding?
Not for mats, grilles, spoilers, bars. Some lighting/electronics may require basic coding, ask before ordering.
Disclaimer: This article is based on our opinion and experience as independent BMW specialists. Prices, availability, and part details may vary over time. Always confirm compatibility and seek professional fitting before purchase.
