The applique (the tape on the rear bumper that doesn't prevent scratches but is supposed to trick you into thinking it does) was itself scratched and peeling away on my Fit. It was an eye sore so I pulled it off only to find that there were some scratches and dings and the applique itself had basically meshed into the paint on some of the scratches.

These are all minor and nothing too big on a 8 year old car (2007 fit sport). But the area would certainly look better with a new applique covering the area. I was wondering is there any other item other than the Honda applique? That thing is basically a glorified sticker. I was hoping to find something more durable and rugged looking (something that actually would prevent scratches).

I don't really load things into my fit often. But I figure if I'm going to pay $40-$50 for something to cover the area anyway, I'd rather it be more than a glorified sticker.

Honda Fit Parts - Bernardi Parts

-REAR BUMPER APPLIQUE
-08P48-SLN-100

 

You might check with a window tint installer, maybe they have something more to your liking?


We put our factory bumper protector on the Fit two years ago, it is holding up fine. It is not difficult to do yourself. If, indeed, you have scratches or gouges in the bumper surface, sand them down smooth first, or you will see the bump forever. (<--- Don't ask me how I learned that. )

 

skateboard grip tape

 

Rear Bumper Protector for 2007 - 2014 Honda Fit

 

That one is a lot smaller than the factory accessory.

 

"I was wondering is there any other item other than the Honda applique? That thing is basically a glorified sticker. I was hoping to find something more durable and rugged looking (something that actually would prevent scratches)."

Well, I am planning, but have not done it yet, to cover the same area but with Truck Bed Liner.

Bought a can of Herculiner and tried it as a step guard for the rear doors and it seems ok. I understand it does not weather well under UV (which is ridiculous for truck bed liner, and that they sell a top coat that i have heard is basically black paint) but I figure it is a small area and you could just re-coat it as needed.

 

i have a picture of herculiner used as a door step protector on my Fit but under "posting rules" it says: You may not post attachments. Don't know how to get past that. I put the picture in a FitFreak "album" so maybe you can access it there.

 

Thats actually a really good idea. The grip tape is built to last and you can cut it to any size you want.


The only issue I see is loading or unloading anything you don't want to get scratched as the grip tape can scrape up just about anything that passes over it. At least the bumper will be fine, lol.

 

How has the 'skateboard grip tape' solution worked out?

 

There is a clear tape product available from 3M called "Leading Edge Tape" it was developed to protect the leading edge of Helicopter rotor blades.

Some race suppliers sell it, I think either Wicks or Aircraft Spruce sell it as well.

It comes in various widths and the typical roll is 40' of tape. Its not cheap, but its almost indestructible.