Body - Front Bumper Cover Gaps
L-SB-0152-09October 28, 2009
Front Bumper Cover Poor Fit
Service Category
Vehicle Exterior
Section
Exterior Panels/Trim
Market
USA
Applicability
Introduction
Some 2010 model year RX 350 and RX 450h models may exhibit a condition where a gap develops at the left and/or right corners of the front bumper cover. This condition may occur more frequently in high ambient temperatures. An improved bumper retainer has been developed to correct this condition. Please follow the procedure in this bulletin to install the improved bumper retainers.
Production Change Information
This TSIB applies to all RX 350 450h vehicles built at TMK and RX 350 vehicles built at TMMC produced BEFORE the Production Change Effective VINs shown.
Parts Information
Required Tools & Equipment
NOTE
Additional SSTs may be ordered by calling 1-800-933-8335.
Warranty Information
APPLICABLE WARRANTY
^ This repair is covered under the Lexus Comprehensive Warranty. This warranty is in effect for 48 months or 50,000 miles, whichever occurs first, from the vehicle's in-service date.
^ Warranty application is limited to occurrence of the specified condition described in this bulletin.
TSIB Overview
This TSIB provides an inspection and bumper retainer replacement procedure to correct excessive gaps at the corners of the front bumper.
Repair Procedure
1. Confirm that the front bumper cover is loose at either the left and/or right side corner(s) below the headlight assembly as shown in Figure 1.
A. If the front bumper cover is loose replace both retainer assemblies and proceed to step 2 of the removal procedure.
B. If the front bumper cover is NOT loose STOP This TSIB does NOT apply.
2. Remove the engine room side cover.
A. Remove the 4 clips.
B. Disengage the guide and remove the engine room side cover.
3. Remove the engine room side cover LH.
A. Remove the 4 clips.
B. Disengage the guide and remove the engine room side cover LH.
4. Remove the 6 clips and cool air intake duct seal.
5. Remove the 2 hood center cushions.
6. Remove the front bumper assembly.
HINT
Use the same procedure for the RH side and LH side.
A. Apply protective tape around the front bumper assembly.
B. Using a screwdriver turn the pins 90 degrees and remove the 2 pin hold clips.
C. Slightly pull the fender liner away and remove the screw and front bumper seal clip.
HINT
Remove the fender liner clip just above the seam for additional access.
NOTICE
Remove the bumper seal clip completely before pulling on the bumper cover to prevent damage.
D. Remove 3 screw style clips on top and 1 lower clip behind the emblem from the front bumper assembly.
E. Remove the 2 center bolts from the bottom of the front bumper assembly.
F. Remove the 2 clips and 2 screws from the bottom of the front bumper assembly.
G. Disengage the 4 claws on each side.
To prevent damage to the front bumper cover; carefully disengage the 4 claws.
H. Using a molding remover disengage the claw under the headlamp.
I. Disconnect the fog light connector.
J. Disconnect the No.1 ultrasonic sensor connector (with Intuitive Parking Assist System).
K. Disconnect the headlight cleaner hose (with Headlight Cleaner System).
Prepare a drain pan in case washer fluid leaks.
L. Remove the front bumper assembly as shown in Figure 14.
NOTE
To ensure the effectiveness of the repail; inspect the bumper cover mounting tabs for any damage or deformation.
7. Remove both the left and right side front bumper retainers and discard.
A. Remove the bolt and screw.
B. Disengage the 2 claws and remove the front bumper side retainer for both left and right side.
8. Cut the ridge from the forward clip on the NEW REPLACEMENT retainer as shown in Figures 16 and 17. Cut the shaded area with a knife so it is even with the clip.
9. Install the NEW left and right side front bumper retainers.
A. Engage the 2 claws.
B. Install the bolt and screw.
10. Install the front bumper cover in the reverse order of removal.
For front bumper cover installation instructions refer to the Technical Information System (TIS) applicable model and model year Repair Manual:
^ 2010 RX 350:
Vehicle Exterior - Exterior Panels/Trim - "Exterior Panels/Trim: Front Bumper: Installation"
^ 2010 RX 450h:
Vehicle Exterior - Exterior Panels/Trim - "Exterior Panels/Trim: Front Bumper:Installation"