Broken lower center grille in front bumper

[jlin101]

Has anyone tried to replace the LOWER center grille (the one containing the ACC radar shield) in the front bumper without removing the bumper itself?

[jettie1767]

My car's lower grille active shutter broke last week and the dealer had to remove the bumper to replace.

[jlin101]

Originally Posted by jettie1767

My car's lower grille active shutter broke last week and the dealer had to remove the bumper to replace.

I wasn't referring to the grille below the license plate and not the double-kidney grille with the active shutters; but I also suspect the bumper would have to be removed for the replacement.

[Markr]

Originally Posted by jlin101

I wasn't referring to the grille below the license plate and not the double-kidney grille with the active shutters; but I also suspect the bumper would have to be removed for the replacement.

The kidney grills can be replaced quite easily without removing the bumper. I did that after a bird strike.

I would be inclined to have a chat with the parts manager at your local dealer, as he will be motivated to sell you the part, and in my experience normally happy to share how the part fits.

[jettie1767]

Originally Posted by jlin101

I wasn't referring to the grille below the license plate and not the double-kidney grille with the active shutters; but I also suspect the bumper would have to be removed for the replacement.

There is an active shutter on the lower grille where the radar is as well. That is the one I'm referring to that broke and dealer had to replace.

[jlin101]

Originally Posted by jettie1767

There is an active shutter on the lower grille where the radar is as well. That is the one I'm referring to that broke and dealer had to replace.

I didn't realize there were active shutters under the bumper as well. I see the upper shutters close when the car is cooled off, but I don't think I have seen the lower ones close, though.

[jettie1767]

Originally Posted by jlin101

I didn't realize there were active shutters under the bumper as well. I see the upper shutters close when the car is cooled off, but I don't think I have seen the lower ones close, though.

Me neither until the dealership told me that was the cause of my check engine light. Look behind the lower grille and you will see them.