Grilles for Honda Civic EK

A front grille fills the opening that feeds air to the radiator and, on many cars, to the intercooler and engine intake. Replacing it changes the face of the car and can let more air through. Grilles here come in ABS and polyurethane, in factory sport and tuner styles for specific models, with an aluminium race mesh for custom work.

At speed, cooling air is pushed through the radiator core by the pressure that builds up in front of it. A grille with more open area, such as a coarse mesh, blocks less of the opening than closely spaced slats or a solid badge panel. The air also needs a way out, and any gap around the core lets it bypass, so a freer grille pays off most when the ducting is sealed. Mesh has a second job as well, keeping stones and insects off the soft radiator fins.

Match the grille to the car first:

• Model and facelift: each grille is made for one model generation. Pre-facelift and facelift fronts take different parts, so go by the years in the title.
• Material: ABS for a rigid grille that paints well, polyurethane for one that flexes rather than cracks.
• Style: factory sport and tuner designs, including a revised second version of one design.
• Race mesh: aluminium mesh in a medium pattern and black finish, to cut and shape for grilles, bumper openings and ducts.

Before final fixing, check that the grille clears the bonnet latch, the horn and any sensor behind it. Cut mesh with tin snips, fold its edges back and secure it with clips, rivets or ties at short intervals so it cannot vibrate loose. Prime ABS with a plastic primer before colour, and clean grilles with mild soap rather than solvents.