Someone tried to steal grille? (OK Y'ALL I GET IT, IT MELTED)

Hey y'all—

As the title states it appears as if someone tried to steal my grill? And in the process they really bent up the plastic. There's no signs of damage to the paint anywhere, which is weird. I took it in to the dealer to get a quote and they recommended replacing the entire grill assembly. Roughly $750 with parts/labor. I figure maybe it's something I could fix myself with a heat gun, or bring to an independent body shop. My insurance deductible is $500 so it's not really worth filing a claim.

Any thoughts? Would appreciate it.

 

This looks more like the warpage problems people were having rather than vandalism.

 

Damn dude, that sucks.

So, it's $750 for just that outer shroud piece?

 

For example:

https://www.tacomaworld.com/threads/please-post-picks-of-warped-grills.514412/

 

There have been multiple posts on here for the exact same thing... it is caused by heat / sun warpage. Your dealer should cover under warranty.

 

Damn, first I've seen of that.

 

It almost looks like there's melting going on. And $750 for that repair is insane. I got a color matched surround for my '15 from the dealer for maybe $250. Wasn't a Pro but still, holy balls.

 

Yeah that doesn't look like someone tried to steal it. If someone wanted to tear it off, it would be gone, or at least much more damage.

 

It might be worth filling the claim and getting the 250 . I don't think they will hold it against you considering you are claiming damage due to attempted theft . But then again I think you might be wrong about what happened so if you want a clear conscience . Anyway it needs fixed gl .

 

Yeah just about. They'd need to order an entire grill assembly (grill included) and then just discard the grill that comes with it so I can keep my TRD pro version. Kinda sucks that it has to be that way, but they don't offer just the shroud as an option.

 

Damn I didn't even consider this being a defect, just assumed the worst. I'll show that thread to the guys at the dealer and hopefully they can cover it under warranty. Thanks for the direction!

 

If someone wanted your grill they would just tear it out, everything on the front is plastic.

 

Also, don’t tell them someone tried to steal your grill, they’ll cover nothing then. Just play dumb and say wtf is this?

 

yes always when in doubt play dumb. I have gotten myself out of so many sticky situations by just shrugging my shoulders and saying "well idk".

 

That sure looks like heat damage to me. Any scratches or claw marks?

RZ Rob

 

Go to your Auto parts store and get a Haynes manual or CD for your truck. It will show you how to remove the grille yourself. Then replace it with a custom or OEM grille from a junkyard or online.

 

Yeah I would think there would be marks on your hood if it was an attempted theft.

 

Very good call...

 

As others have said, try to replace it through Toyota cause it looks warped. If they don't play ball then try another dealer. If all else fails, buy this and go get it painted. Should be under $300 for a new bezel piece and fresh paint.

https://www.ebay.com/ulk/itm/273591853696

 

Claw marks!