Front Accent Grill Hole

[greyfox47]

A couple days ago, I was giving my '17 MKX Reserve a well deserved bath when I discovered this damn hole in the driver's side front bumper area. Lincoln wants $525 to replace the plastic piece that runs across the entire front running light to running light. For the record, I haven't accidently thumped anything that would have done it, especially this clean. Consensus seems to be that a stone (?) did the damage... or something similar. The part itself is $275 if I buy direct. Anyone have any thought of alternative repairs?  I'm actually considering buying a piece of black ABS 1/16" plastic, cutting it to a rectangular size and epoxying it over the hole and calling it a day until something else happens that would drive replacement of the part. Any thoughts out there?

 

Edited April 2 by greyfox47

[Cosmos36]

I can't be specific about my idea since I haven't shopped for what might be available, but if your scenario were to occur to my identical 2016 grill/fascia I would shop around for a piece of molding (chrome?), reflector, or other item backed with 3M tape to fit over the area in an integrated manner (appearance-wise), also applying the same on the passenger side for symmetry.

 

An alternative might be shopping the used auto parts sources for a replacement.

[enigma-2]

Insurance? (Under your comprehensive policy).

[Graftman]

Slip in a piece of plastic behind the hole (glue behind the hole to keep it in place) and fill and sand. 

Cut two strips of 3M Scotchprint car wrap vinyl film 1080 series matte black

And do the same on both sides the full length of the strip. Will look like its supposed to be like that.

*lots of YouTube vids on car wrap techniques...basically cut strips slightly larger and stretch into place. Then slice along the contours under both lips. Will look perfect and its cheap so you can feel ok about redoing anytime. Plus its super tough stuff. Buy enough to do a few should you ever need to. 

 

Edited May 16 by Graftman
adding info