Newbie Tacoma Owner

Sorry if this has all been answered before, but I am new to this forum. I recently purchased a Tacoma and am considering installing a bull guard out of necessity. Is there anyone that knows or can recommend locations in Southern California where I can purchase and have a bull guard installed? Thank you so much.

 

Bull guards are generally disliked around here. Both for aesthetics and limited function.

A better option is one of several choices of aftermarket front bumpers in aluminum or steel. Some of those have hoop bar options.

The California forum is a good place to ask about installers. You might even find a forum member to help. @Kwikvette might have guidance on both

 

Install would be super simple, heck I'd do it for a case of a hazy IPA as they're all bolt-on options.

But keep in mind, as long as you understand that these guards can cause more damage to your vehicle in the event of an accident versus running without one.

Thanks for the tag Billy, I might be some 2-4 hours too far (I'm in the Fresno County, Central Valley).

 

I am not saying there isn't one, but I haven't seen one for the 3rd gen that is more than aesthetics, due to the way they mount. The whole monstrosity hangs off of two bolts at the front of the frame, which would fold in to the grill (the intended area to protect) and also create frame damage.

 

Thank you so much. I really dislike them too, but unfortunately I have to park on the street and have neighbors who don't know how to park. My other vehicle has already had the bumper dented because of it.

 

I'd go with a good aluminum or steel bumper for that purpose, the grill isn't going to take hits from most any sedan or even lifted truck.

 

Thank you so much!

 

You may get some front bumper ideas on this link. Welcome to TW.

https://www.tacomaworld.com/threads/complete-third-gen-tacoma-front-bumper-thread.502517/

 

Thanks!

 

Hi Eva. I don't know where you can get one/installed, but I got mine from Vangard, and it covers the whole bottom of the plastic bumper, (Including the corners). It's held up against Mall Crawlers, brush, branches, varmits, birds and other small animals that have foolishly jumped in front of my Taco.

Don't worry about people telling you it does more damage than good. The whole front end is plastic....





(Stock photo)

 

Thank you!

 

Other bull-bars people have mounted are a little taller than the hood of the truck. That much bulk can put excessive stress on the mount point. That short bar is probably far less stress.

 

I would just like something that will protect the bumper slightly so people who back up while parking think twice before hitting it. I always try to be careful, but I have some pretty careless neighbors. Thank you so much for all of the great suggestions. I really appreciate it!

 

Or, as suggested, replace the plastic front bumper with a steel or aluminum bumper. That also sets up for a winch in the future.