BMW E81 Fuel Filler Flap Fill In Flap Cover Midnight Blue Metallic - B38 7172083

Visual condition of the part

The product shows signs of use visible in the photos.

BMW E81 Fuel Filler Flap Fill In Flap Cover Midnight Blue Metallic is an original body component designed to factory-fill the fuel filler recess. Thanks to its precise fit to the bodywork and the maintenance of the correct hinge geometry and exterior surface, it provides a functional and aesthetic addition to the side of the vehicle. It is a practical solution for post-accident repairs, body and paint corrections, or replacing a damaged cover.

Specifications and technical data

• SKU: 7172083-MB
• Mark: BMW (Genuine OE)
• Condition: Used
• OEM Part Number: 7172083
• Substitutable numbers: 51177172083, 7172083
• Color: Monacoblau Metallic - A35
• Category: Fuel Flaps & Components

Purpose and technical function

The fuel filler cover for the BMW 1 Series E81 is responsible for covering the fuel filler neck and sealing this area of the body against external contaminants. The component works with the factory opening and closing mechanism, ensuring:

• stable closure of the filler during driving,
• protection against water, mud, and road salt,
• consistency of the side body line,
• proper edge alignment relative to the fender and bumper.

Due to the preservation of the original design, the flap does not require modification of mounts or interference with the body metal, which facilitates quick installation and reduces the risk of leaks in the filler area.

Color and paint matching

The component is finished in the factory color Monacoblau Metallic – A35, characteristic of many BMW 1 Series vehicles. The metallic paint coating ensures consistency with the manufacturer's original color palette, which facilitates:

• part selection for local repairs,
• minimizing the scope of painting work,
• achieving a uniform visual effect on the side plane of the body.

In the case of professional body and paint repairs, using an original cover in the same shade allows for shortening vehicle preparation time and reducing the amount of work associated with color matching.

Installation characteristics

The fuel filler cover is a body component designed to work with the factory hinge and locking mechanism in the BMW E81. This means that:

• original mounting points are preserved,
• edge geometry corresponds to the serial fender stamping,
• it is possible to restore the original body line without additional adaptations.

Such a solution is particularly beneficial for post-collision repairs, where quick restoration of factory fitment and proper flap operation in daily use are essential.

Condition and practical application

The offered fuel filler cover is a used part, which makes it an attractive cost-effective alternative while maintaining the manufacturer's original specifications. It works well for both budget repairs and vehicle reconstruction while maintaining the factory character of the body. A used body component allows for limiting the amount of body filler and fitting work typical of aftermarket replacements with different geometry.

Integration with the fuel system and technical knowledge

Although the fuel filler cover is a body component, its proper operation affects the convenience of refueling and the protection of the filler neck area. For users interested in a broader context of operation and diagnostics of the fuel supply system, the following article will be useful: Fuel system – injectors, pumps, and fuel tank: maintenance and regeneration. It allows for a better understanding of the relationships between body elements and fuel system components in daily operation.

If you are planning a comprehensive repair or upgrade of the fuel filler area in your BMW and need other components from the same group, such as additional covers, shields, or accessories in the filler area, check the available parts in the category BMW fuel filler covers and accessories.