Buy Acura ILX Bumper Covers

Key Takeaways

The bumper cover-also called a bumper skin, fascia, or shell-for the Acura ILX (model-years 2013-2022) protects crash-absorbing structures, carries lights and sensors, and finishes the car's look. It is typically made from flexible PP+EPDM plastic, so it resists dents yet can be repaired or recycled. Two major redesigns (2016 and 2019) changed the shape and mounting points, so always match the cover to the exact year and trim. The ILX earned top crash-test scores, which makes correct bumper fit vital for safety.

Model Years & Fit

• 2013-2015 - original style with narrow grille opening.
• 2016-2018 - first facelift adds "Jewel-Eye" LEDs and a wider lower air inlet. (Wikipedia)
• 2019-2022 - second facelift adopts the "Diamond Pentagon" grille; bumper cover, lamps, and mounting tabs are unique.

Always verify the 17-digit VIN and compare the bumper code stamped on the inside to avoid ordering the wrong shell.

Construction

Most ILX bumper covers are molded from polypropylene blended with EPDM rubber (PP-EPDM), a thermoplastic that bends instead of cracking. (I-CAR RTS, Rutland Plastics)
Key advantages:

• Light weight (helps fuel economy).
• Corrosion-proof and easy to paint.
• Repairable with plastic-weld or two-part epoxy when cracks or torn mounting ears appear. (Club RSX)

Safety Notes

A well-fitted fascia keeps crash sensors aligned so airbags deploy on time. The ILX earned a 5-star overall rating from the U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, with especially strong frontal protection. See details (NHTSA)
The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety also rated the 2019 ILX "Good" in all major crashworthiness tests. (IIHS Crash Testing)
Acura's own release notes that the sedan line, including ILX, met top NHTSA marks in 2016. (Acuranews)

Common Damage Signs

• Paint scuffs or spider-web cracks.
• Broken guide tabs causing gaps at the fender joint. (ilxforums.com)
• Misaligned headlight or grille edges after a minor bump.
• Parking-sensor or fog-light housings pushed in.

Minor gouges can be sanded and filled; large tears often need a replacement shell.

Removal Basics

DIYers can swap an ILX bumper skin in about one hour with hand tools:

1. Open the hood and remove the plastic clips along the upper grille support.
2. Raise the front and pull the splash-shield screws.
3. Release side-mounting clips by pulling the cover outward at each wheel arch. (YouTube)
4. Disconnect fog-light and sensor plugs, then slide the cover forward.

Re-useable push-pins should be replaced if distorted to keep the fascia snug.

Paint & Finish

• Factory paint-code sticker sits on the driver-door jamb. (Era Paints)
• Codes mix letters and numbers (e.g., NH-788P "Spectrum White").
• Use a flexible-parts primer and add a flex-additive to the clear-coat to prevent peeling.
• Quick video guides show the exact label location on ILX models. (YouTube)

Costs & Insurance

Typical price ranges (USD):

• Unpainted aftermarket fascia: ≈ $220-$400 (plus shipping).
• OEM-finish refinish and install: ≈ $800-$1,200 at a body shop. (Reddit)

Comprehensive insurance often covers bumper skins after a collision; verify your deductible before paying out of pocket.

Disposal & Recycling

Old bumper covers count as plastic automotive waste. Shops must:

• Capture sanding dust and paint overspray.
• Label solvent waste and keep manifests for three years under EPA's surface-coating rule. (US EPA)
• Ship leftover paint and solvent with licensed haulers or drop at a household hazardous-waste facility. (US EPA)

Intact PP-EPDM skins can be shredded and recycled into new auto parts. (Orbi-Tech)

Care Tips

• Wash with pH-neutral soap; harsh chemicals dull the clear-coat.
• Wax every six months to protect UV-sensitive plastics.
• Inspect clip points twice a year; replace any missing push-pins to stop rattles.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What material is the ILX bumper made from?
A: A flexible plastic called polypropylene mixed with EPDM rubber (PP-EPDM). (I-CAR RTS)

Q: Will a 2015 cover fit my 2019 ILX?
A: No. The 2019 facelift changed the grille shape and clip pattern, so the shells are not interchangeable. (Wikipedia)

Q: Where do I find the paint code?
A: Open the driver door and read the sticker on the jamb; it shows a code like "NH-737M." (Era Paints)

Q: Can I drive with a cracked bumper skin?
A: Small cracks won't stop you from driving, but gaps can let road debris hit wiring or sensors-fix it soon to avoid bigger repairs.

Q: How do I remove the front fascia?
A: Take out the upper clips, bottom screws, and side tabs, then unplug lights before pulling it forward. (YouTube)

Q: What tools do I need?
A: Trim-clip pliers, a 10 mm socket, Phillips screwdriver, and a soft fender cover.

Q: Can broken mounting ears be repaired?
A: Yes, plastic-weld the PP-EPDM with a nitrogen welder or two-part flexible epoxy. (Club RSX)

Q: Is repainting necessary?
A: Unpainted or primer-only covers must be painted to match your car and to protect the plastic from UV.

Q: How much does professional refinishing cost?
A: About $800 for labor and materials at a typical body shop, depending on local rates. (Reddit)

Q: Does a bumper cover affect airbag timing?
A: Yes. Misaligned skins can change sensor readings, so proper fit is critical to keep airbag deployment times within NHTSA specs. (NHTSA)

Q: Are aftermarket covers as strong as factory ones?
A: Strength comes mostly from the inner bumper beam; the cover is cosmetic. Choose CAPA-certified parts for reliable fit.

Q: How do I dispose of old paint and solvent?
A: Follow EPA hazardous-waste rules-store in sealed containers, label clearly, and use licensed haulers. (US EPA)

Q: What regular care keeps the bumper looking new?
A: Gentle washing, periodic waxing, and prompt chip touch-ups prevent fading and rust on the steel fasteners behind the skin.

Q: Can I install parking sensors on a replacement fascia?
A: Yes; mark factory locations and drill with a step-bit, then seal edges to keep moisture out.

Q: Does the ILX bumper have active aerodynamics?
A: No active shutters, but Acura shaped the cover to guide air under the car and reduce drag. (Wikipedia)

Helpful Resources

• Crash-test data: NHTSA
• Detailed safety charts: IIHS
• Plastic-repair advice: I-CAR Repairability Technical Support (I-CAR RTS)
• EPA paint-waste rules: U.S. EPA (US EPA)

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