How to Replace the Front Bumper on a Toyota Tacoma
by Leonardo R. Grabkowski
Although the Tacoma nameplate has only been used since 1995, the truck has been sold in the United States since the late 1960s, under the simple name of Toyota Pickup. The Tacoma is one of the most popular compact or midsized trucks on the market; it is known for its durability and high resale value. The front bumper on a Toyota Tacoma is made up of two parts: an upper and lower.
Step 1
Turn your Tacoma's engine off, park on level ground and engage the parking brake. Make sure you are in a well-lit area, free of distraction.
Step 2
Use the screwdriver to remove the front wheel-wheels from each side of the Tacoma. Many of the bolts and screws mounting the bumper are located behind the bumper. You must remove the wheel-wheel cover to access them.
Step 3
Remove the screws mounting each turn-signal light. Use the flashlight to help make the screws visible inside the wheel-well. Disconnect the wiring module from each signal light and put the lights in a safe place.
Step 4
Remove the bolts underneath the front part of the bumper. There are two bolts on each side. These bolts mount the lower part of the bumper, which must be removed prior to removing the bumper. Set the lower part of the bumper aside when the mounting bolts are removed.
Step 5
Remove the screws in the fender brace on each side of the wheel-well. The fender brace is the main device attaching the bumper to the Tacoma.
Step 6
Grab hold of the edges of the bumper on one side and have an assistance grab the other end. Simultaneously pull the bumper away from the Tacoma to release the mounting clips. The clips are the only thing left securing the bumper. Remove the clips to install your new bumper if it does not come with them.
Step 7
Mount the new bumper in its place, popping each clip into place. The Tacoma bumper has eight clips that mount the bumper. Replace the screws in the fender brace; make sure you line the brace up with the mounting holes on the new bumper.
Step 8
Replace the lower part of the bumper and mount the bolts beneath. Replace the signal lights on each side and reconnect the wiring harnesses. Replace the wheel-well access cover.
Tips
- Have an assistant help you for best results. If no one can help you, start at one end of the bumper and work your way down to remove the clips.
Things You'll Need
- Socket wrench set
- Screwdriver
- Flashlight (optional)
Writer Bio
Leonardo R. Grabkowski has been writing professionally for more than four years. Grabkowski attended college in Oregon. He builds websites on the side and has a slight obsession with Drupal, Joomla and Wordpress.
