BMW 3 Series E46 Saloon Touring Fill In Flap Fuel Filler Cover Black Sapphire

BMW 3 Series E46 Saloon Touring Fill In Flap Fuel Filler Cover Black Sapphire is an original body component designed for the 3 Series E46 sedan and touring models. Thanks to its factory Black Sapphire Metallic paint, it ensures a consistent look with the rest of the bodywork and an aesthetic finish to the rear of the vehicle. It is a practical solution for users who want to restore the factory appearance of the fuel filler area following damage or corrosion.

Specifications and technical data

• SKU: 8208246-BS
• Mark: BMW (Genuine OE)
• Condition: Used
• OEM Part Number: 8208246
• Substitutable numbers: 51178208246, 8208246, PK
• Color: Black Sapphire Metallic - 475
• Category: Body Side & Quarter Panels

Purpose and fitment for BMW E46

The presented fuel filler flap has been designed specifically for BMW 3 Series E46 models in sedan (Saloon) and estate (Touring) versions. This ensures the correct geometry, appropriate sheet metal bending radius, and compatibility with the factory hinge and opening mechanism. The component belongs to the Rear wheel arches and fenders group, meaning it fits perfectly into the side line of the body and requires no installation modifications.

Black Sapphire Metallic paint finish

The flap is painted in Black Sapphire Metallic - 475, a color characteristic of many BMW E46 units. The metallic coating provides color depth and an attractive gloss, while also reducing the scope of potential paint work when replacing a damaged part. For owners of cars in this shade, it is a convenient solution that facilitates maintaining visual consistency of the entire rear quarter panel.

Component characteristics and installation

As a body part, the fuel filler flap works with the factory filler socket, seals, and the hinge in the rear fender. The design provided by the manufacturer allows for installation in place of the original flap without the need for body modifications. Precise fitment allows for maintaining correct gaps between the flap and the fender, which is important for both aesthetic and functional reasons (e.g., in automatic car washes).

The item is offered in a used condition, which in practice means real repair cost savings while maintaining the original manufacturer's specifications. It is a good solution for post-accident repairs, correcting corrosion spots, or replacing the flap after mechanical damage.

Practical application and benefits of replacement

Replacing the fuel filler flap is important not only for visual reasons but also for functional ones. A fully operational component:

• ensures proper closing of the fuel filler area,
• protects the fuel cap and filler socket from dirt and moisture,
• reduces the risk of corrosion in the rear fender area,
• improves the overall appearance of the side body line.

For users who care about the visual condition of their BMW E46, using an original flap in Black Sapphire Metallic allows for a consistent finish of body and paint repairs in the rear part of the vehicle.

Integration with other BMW body components

If you are planning a comprehensive repair or upgrade of the rear body area in your BMW and need other components from the same group, such as covers, sheet metal sections, or additional panels, check the available parts in the BMW rear wheel arches and fenders category.

For drivers interested in optimizing repair costs using branded used parts, the article describing the evolution of powertrains and the approach to servicing may also be helpful – more information can be found in the material Volkswagen 1.9 TDI vs 1.4 TSI – evolution of VW engines and repair costs.