BMW Carbon Fiber Parts: Dry Carbon vs Wet Carbon, Explained
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Shop for carbon fiber BMW parts and you will see two prices for what looks like the same part. The difference is usually how the carbon was made: dry or wet. Here is what each one means.
Wet carbon
Wet carbon is made by laying carbon cloth into a mold and adding resin by hand. It is the most common way aftermarket carbon parts are made, and it keeps the price down. Many wet carbon parts are a carbon outer layer over a fiberglass or plastic base, with a gloss clear coat on top.
Done well, wet carbon looks great on the car. The things to check are an even weave with no dry spots, and a clear coat with UV protection so it does not yellow.
Dry carbon
Dry carbon starts with pre-preg: carbon cloth that already has an exact amount of resin in it. It is pressed into a mold and cured under heat and pressure, often in an autoclave. That process is why dry carbon parts are usually lighter and stiffer, with crisper edges, and why they cost more.
How to tell what you are buying
- Look for the words pre-preg, autoclave or dry carbon in the specification.
- Check whether it is a replacement part or a stick-on cover that goes over the factory part.
- Check the weave: 3K twill is the classic diagonal carbon look.
- Ask for the exact fitment. A good seller lists chassis codes, not just "fits 3 Series".
Our carbon parts
- Dry carbon mirror caps for the G87 M2, G80 M3, G82/G83 M4 and M240i, M340i and M440i with M-style mirrors. Autoclave dry carbon, 3K twill, replacement style.
- M4-style dry carbon trunk spoiler for the G20 3 Series sedan and G80 M3.
- Carbon vented hood for the G80 M3 and G82/G83 M4. Wet-laid, single-sided carbon, made to order.
- Magnetic carbon paddle shifters for BMW F-series cars with factory paddles.
Every part lists exactly how it is made and what it fits. Browse them all on our carbon fiber page, or send us your VIN and we will confirm fitment in writing, free.