Chrome trim around shifter

[richdave]

Has anyone replaced the chrome trim around the shifter? The reflected sun peeves me a lot.

I have not yet found an after market replacement for this... I wonder if there is an OS model that does not have the chrome trim

I am tempted to get the dealer to pull it out and then have a go at spray painting it mat black...

[Steve]

http://oempl.us/index.php?main_page=...roducts_id=321

I was also a little concerned about this with the R36, but it turns out the R36 trim is darker (I think) and isn't a problem.

The site above has both dark and R36 style brushed aluminium replacements. They're a good option.

[richdave]

The bit I want to replace is the smaller piece that has the gear indicator numbers etc in it. This does not appear to be in the kits suggested...

The bright chrome bit not the matt finish bezel

[snodrogs]

I wonder if you can stick some clear contact on top of the offending piece. T

The dealer did not take my protective clear coating off and I do not find it too obtrusive. My mate however went to a different dealer and they removed the clear strip during his PDI and his reflects badly.

I wonder if my dealer knew something that my mate's didn't.

Andrew

[richdave]

I wonder if you can stick some clear contact on top of the offending piece.

Hmm you may be on to something.... the adhesive film used to give glass the frosted look may be an option... Thanks for the idea

[R36 Dreamer]

http://oempl.us/index.php?main_page=...roducts_id=321

I was also a little concerned about this with the R36, but it turns out the R36 trim is darker (I think) and isn't a problem.

The site above has both dark and R36 style brushed aluminium replacements. They're a good option.

Maybe not as bad as the standard Passat, but it still reflects badly when it gets in the right light.

I carry a microfibre cloth in the car (as part of a kit that contains cloth, paintbrush, and lense cleaner - dont ask!) and lay that over the offending chrome strip that runs over the ashtray closure.