Buy INFINITI QX80 Bumper Covers

Quick Summary

The bumper cover on an INFINITI QX80 is a light plastic "skin" that hides the steel bumper beam, shapes airflow around the SUV, and carries parking sensors, cameras, and fog-lamp trim. Built from impact-resistant polypropylene and backed by energy-absorbing foam, it protects the cooling system in low-speed taps and helps advanced driver-assistance features "see" the road. The cover's design changed in the 2018 facelift, but mounting points stayed the same for 2014-2024 models, making replacement straightforward with basic tools. Federal rules limit how far it may protrude, and INFINITI warns that filler or thick paint near the radar windows can block safety systems. When the plastic is damaged beyond repair, many programs now recycle old covers into new auto parts.

What It Does

The cover-also called a fascia, shield, or bumper skin-snaps over the metal reinforcement bar. It:

• Absorbs small bumps. The hard shell and foam insert deform first, sparing sheet-metal panels. (ScienceDirect, Engineered Foam Products)
• Shapes style and airflow. The front fascia channels air to the radiator and reduces drag. (papers.sae.org)
• Houses tech. Front and rear pieces hold sonar sensors and the Around-View® cameras that feed the 360° monitor. (INFINITI)
• Supports lighting. Fog lamps, reflectors, and optional LED accent strips clip directly into molded recesses.

Years & Fit

• 2014-2017 first-gen QX80 (re-badged QX56) uses the original style cover. (Edmunds)
• 2018-2024 facelift gained a taller grille and slimmer headlamps, but bolt-on points stayed unchanged, so the updated front cover swaps onto any 2014-2024 truck with matching trim holes. (Carscoops)
• A new platform is expected for the 2025 model; dimensions may change, so double-check part numbers. (INFINITI)

Build & Materials

Polypropylene (PP) plastic is light, resists corrosion, and bounces back after low-speed hits. (Protolabs) A honeycomb or expanded-polypropylene (EPP) foam block sits behind the shield to soak up energy. (Engineered Foam Products)

Safety Rules

U.S. law says passenger-vehicle bumpers must handle a 2.5 mph corner hit without harming lights, hood, or safety gear. (NHTSA) INFINITI also requires pre- and post-repair scans whenever the cover comes off, to confirm sensors are calibrated. (I-CAR RTS)

ADAS Cautions

The side radar for Blind-Spot Warning sits just behind the rear fascia. INFINITI does not allow filler, stickers, or thick paint over that area; replace the panel instead. (I-CAR RTS) Removing the cover means the radar or distance sensor may need a software calibration afterward. (I-CAR RTS)

DIY Removal

A home mechanic needs a plastic trim tool, T-20 Torx bit, and 10 mm socket. Remove skid-plate bolts, fender screws, and top clips, then pull the cover forward with steady pressure. (YouTube) Disconnect fog-lamp plugs and parking-sensor harnesses before lifting the skin away.

Paint & Finishes

INFINITI's color code sticker (driver-door jamb) lists three-letter paint IDs such as KH3 "Black Obsidian" or QAB "Moonlight White." (TouchUpDirect) The cover arrives un-painted; apply flexible-bumper primer, basecoat, and UV-clear for best match.

Custom Looks

Aftermarket body kits such as the Missuro package add a vented front fascia and sporty rear diffuser while keeping factory mounts. (Larte Design)

Recycling

Programs now grind damaged PP shields into pellets for new car parts, closing the plastic loop and cutting landfill waste. (Recycling Today)

Specs Snapshot

• Overall length: ~210 in. QX80 curb weight ~6,000 lb. (Edmunds, Car and Driver)
• Ground clearance: 9.2 in.; bumper lip sits just below frame rails. (CarBuzz)

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What's the bumper cover made of?
A: Tough polypropylene plastic with a foam absorber behind it. (Protolabs, Engineered Foam Products)

Q: Does it help in high-speed crashes?
A: No. At speeds above about 5 mph, the steel beam and crumple zones do the real work. (ScienceDirect)

Q: Can I sand and fill a gouge near the blind-spot radar?
A: INFINITI says don't-repairs there can block the sensor; replace the panel instead. (I-CAR RTS)

Q: Do I need to recalibrate sensors after removal?
A: Yes, radar and camera modules may need calibration whenever the cover or its brackets move. (I-CAR RTS)

Q: Which years share the same front fascia?
A: All QX80s from model-year 2014 through 2024, though 2018-up have updated styling details. (Carscoops, Edmunds)

Q: What tools do I need for a DIY swap?
A: Trim pry bar, Torx T-20, 10 mm socket, and a friend to help lift. (YouTube)

Q: Will the cover come pre-painted?
A: It usually ships in primer; body shops spray factory-code paint after test-fitting. (TouchUpDirect)

Q: Are aftermarket body kits safe?
A: Kits that keep factory sensor windows clear and meet bumper-height rules are generally fine; always test ADAS afterward. (Larte Design)

Q: Can the old plastic be recycled?
A: Yes-many recyclers turn retired bumper skins into new auto parts. (Recycling Today)

Q: How long does removal take?
A: About one hour for an experienced DIYer; budget extra for sensor checks. (YouTube)

Takeaways

A bumper cover may look like simple trim, yet it blends safety, style, and tech. Using factory-spec plastic, mindful refinishing, and proper sensor calibration keeps every QX80 looking sharp and its driver-assist features working right.