[2oSoJ]

So I got into a minor crash. A tow hitch ruined my bumper hood radiator and support. Ordered a new support through car parts.com. The original feels like a type of metal maybe aluminum¿ The new one is a plastic pretty firm but it’s plastic. Now I’m thinking if I should go through with installing this plastic support or find a better more solid one. Does it really matter? Any tips or tricks I’d appreciate I’m new to all things bimmer. Gracias amigos

[E92_William]

I remember the support in my parts car was like half plastic and half metal. I'd just run if it if fits. I basically gave it away with the car because nobody wanted it lol you should be able to find one cheap used if you want

[eljay]

If it's OEM and compatible, use it. The support is there to hold the accessories etc. The crash structure is the bumper rebar and support tying into the frame rails and body, so aluminum vs plastic for rad support doesn't matter. One will crack and one will bend in any impact, so both will be ruined.

[Efthreeoh]

It's plastic. Fiber reinforced plastic. They have always been plastic.

[2oSoJ]

I appreciate all the helpful replies. I threw it on and the fit was perfect and sturdy just had second thoughts. Bimmer will be back soon w upgrades🥴