jclem

The more I look at this, the more I think I like it. My RX is Black Sapphire, so I'd probably get it in the 'Black Ice' version(which of course is more expensive). After looking at the instructions, it doesn't look too diffficult. How long did it take you to install it?

Hal56

I'll have to watch for you --Phoenix area?

jclem

I like the grill, but just had a thought---- This is my first I lease, so I don't know, will they allow me to do this?

MEP7557

It took me about 3 hours to do it. It is supposed to take one hour. I'm a perfectionist so it took me longer. It was not a 100% perfect fit so I had to break a couple tabs off the chrome surround so the grille would lay right. All in all it was not that difficult. I don't think this is a good idea if you are leasing.

I have painted the old grille a different color and I am going to put it in today. I will post pictures when done. Do I need a life or what??????

Phoenix area.....

MEP7557

OK Here are the pics of the painted grille. I think I like this one. The black just gets lost. I have become a pro at this and can change the grille in less than a half hour. The chrome mesh grille can be put right back in in no time.

Let me know what you all think......

lex

on the first photo it's effing great, on the second one not so much

jclem

Hey MEP, It's good to know that the grills are easily interchangeable. I'm curious, though, are you just doing that for yucks or are you having 2nd thoughts about the mesh?

MEP7557

In my relentless pursuit for perfection I am trying to figure out which I like best. I like the mesh, it is a little high on the 'bling' factor. Still, a good look though I like the refinement of the OEM grille, just wasn't fond of the color and wanted something different. I guess it's all a matter of personal taste. I am going to live with this painted one for a week and then decide.

What do you think?

ps I painted the black rim around the "L" out the color of the grille so it blends in better. I will post a pic tom.

jclem

I think I still prefer the mesh. I know what you mean about the 'bling' factor, especially with the bright chrome, but you do also have the nice shiny chrome wheels, so the grill isn't out of place. Because my car is Black Sapphire, I'd go for the 'Black Ice' version.

Just had a thought....how do you think the Black Ice mesh would look on yours? It's kind of a compromise.....mesh but not as 'blingy'???

Did you spray on a real heavy duty paint on the OEM grill? Being right up front, it's going to take a beating.

MEP7557

The whole point was to get rid of the black. You are right the chrome fits the rest of the car. Black on black would look good but the chrome would really shine with the black.
I think I'm going back to the mesh. I just used spray paint in a can and then put a clear coat over it. I asked the dealer if I could get them to Chrome the grille like they did the rims. No response yet, they were concerned since it was plastic.

jhill20

iTrader: (1)

not bad. kinda like it actually....not too blingy

MEP7557

Well, in my relentless pursuit I managed to ruin the OEM grille. I was tweaking the color(making it a little darker) and got carried away. The paint ran and I was unable to save it. I have been looking on-line to find a replacement, I will call the dealer Monday. The mesh is back in. Good thing I had a back-up.

jclem

OUCH !! That hurts.

jskennedy

i'm going to order a mesh grill

might could sell you my oem grill if i like the mesh

MEP7557

That would work for me. If you need any help with the install of the mesh let me know. There are a few things you have to tweak to get it to fit right. The longer I'm living with it the more I like it(mesh).