Has anyone replaced the standard black plastic in the front bumper (non-turbo) - without removing the bumper? Can it be removed/replaced through the openings?


Andreas

 

Andreas,

I did the bumper cover R&R when I had my front bumper cover re-sprayed last summer and if I remember correctly, I think you have to remove at least the bottom half of the cover to get to the clips that hold the grill in place.

If I remember correctly, total removal time was about an hour. Replacement was a little longer because of the care necessary to fit the freshly painted cover without scratching it.

Terry

 

I installed one in mine by only removing the lower left side.

 

As I understand it, the grille is only held in place with the flimsy tabs. Correct?

Andreas

 

Correct. The tabs are fragile so use caution when removing. When time permits, I'm replacing mine with a black screen metal mesh.......for no other reason than a different look.

 

I'll confirm that. You can replace it by hand through the openings.

 

kdurg: I've often condisered that. Would you post some pix when you complete the install?

 

Will do.

 

So the answer is 'yes'?


Andreas

 

I should have said plastic tabs, not "clips" as I originally stated, and yes, both the tabs and loops into which the tabs are inserted are quite fragile.

The key to removal is to push straight out on the tabs from behind the grille. Similarly, installation should be a push straight in from the front of the grille. If you tilt the grille it increases the liklihood of breakage, particularly of the loops.

Terry

 

Well, let me qualify.

I had the entire black mesh loose behind the grille and reattached it by snapping the tabs into place by hand. I didn't actually pull the loose mesh out from behind the grille. It's flexible so it might be possible but I didn't try it.