Finding a substitute 2009 f150 bumper shouldn't feel like a massive headache, but with so many options out there, it's easy in order to get a little bit overwhelmed. Whether your current one is corroded through, dented through a backing-up accident, or you're simply tired of the particular stock look plus want something beefier, you've actually got a lot of cool directions a person can go. The 2009 model season was a huge deal for Ford—it was the start of the twelfth generation—and that means the aftermarket support for these trucks continues to be absolutely massive.
Let's end up being honest, the bumper is among the first things people notice on your truck. It's the "face" of the vehicle in case it's the front side, and it's the finishing touch upon the rear. When your chrome is peeling or your own plastic valance is usually dragging on the pavement, it really drags throughout the whole vibe of what is otherwise the legendary pickup.
Why You Might Need a brand new Bumper
Most people looking for a 2009 f150 bumper fall straight into one of 3 camps. First, there's the "oops" crowd. Maybe you misjudged a pole within a tight parking lot, or somebody tapped you from a stoplight. Because these trucks sit a little higher than your own average sedan, even a low-speed influence can crumple the particular steel or snap the plastic videos that hold the particular trim in location.
Then, you've got the rust belt survivors. In the event that you live somewhere where they salt the roads in the winter, you know the particular struggle. That manufacturing plant chrome looks great for a few years, yet eventually, those little stone chips turn into orange pockets. Before you understand it, you may poke your ring finger right through the metal. It's not just an eyesore; it's a safety concern.
Finally, right now there are the upgraders. The stock 2009 f150 bumper is fine regarding getting groceries or heading to employment site, but when you're into off-roading or want the more aggressive "raptor-lite" look, the stock plastic and thin steel aren't going to cut this.
OEM Design vs. Aftermarket Upgrades
When you start shopping, you need to decide if you want to keep it original or proceed rogue.
Sticking with the particular Factory Look
If you love the method your truck looked when it rolled off the great deal, an OEM-style replacement may be the way in order to go. These are usually usually made to the particular exact specifications because the original. You can find all of them in chrome, that was super popular for the XLT and Lariat trims, or paint-to-match versions found on the FX4 or STX models.
The wonderful thing about going this route is that everything just fits . You won't have to exercise new holes or even worry about whether your fog lights will certainly still snap directly into place. It's a straightforward swap that will restores the truck's value without producing it look like a project automobile.
Opting for Heavy-Duty Steel
On the flip aspect, maybe you desire something that can take a literal beating. Aftermarket metal bumpers really are a well-known choice for the 2009 f150 bumper crowd. We're speaking about those plate steel or tubular bumpers that seem like they belong on a pre-runner.
These usually provide better approach perspectives if you're hitting the trails, and numerous of these come along with built-in mounts intended for LED light bars or winches. Just keep in thoughts that they are large. If you choose a massive ranch-style bumper with a full grille safeguard, you might in fact notice a minor drop in your own front-end height because of the extra weight.
Top Bumper Specifics in order to Watch Out Regarding
The front 2009 f150 bumper is more than the hunk of metal. Depending on your own trim level, there are a several components you require to account regarding.
First, check out your fog lighting. Some 2009 versions have circular fogs, while others might not have them at just about all. If you're buying a replacement, make sure it has the correct cutouts. In the event that your truck didn't come with all of them, this is actually a great time to include them since you'll have everything apart anyway.
Then there's the lower valance—that plastic piece that hangs off the bottom. It's meant to help with aerodynamics (and every little little bit helps with the 5. 4L Triton's gas mileage), but it's often the particular first thing to get ripped off within deep snow or even mud. You can usually buy this separately or because part of the kit.
Lastly, don't forget regarding the tow hooks. The 2009 f150 bumper design has specific slot machine games for these to poke through. When you have a 4x4, you certainly want to create sure your set up doesn't block your own recovery points.
The Rear Bumper and Those Pesky Sensors
Replacing a rear 2009 f150 bumper is usually a bit less complicated, but there's one particular big "gotcha": the particular backup sensors. If your truck provides the reverse sensing system, you'll observe four little plastic circles embedded within the bumper.
When you buy a new a single, you have to make sure it's "sensor-ready. " In the event that you buy a smooth bumper and your truck offers sensors, you're going to have a poor time trying in order to drill those holes perfectly. Conversely, if you buy a bumper with holes however your truck doesn't have sensors, you'll be remaining with four arbitrary holes that appear a bit silly.
Also, consider a look from your trailer hitch. Around the 2009 F150, the bumper plus the hitch set up are closely associated, but the bumper itself usually just bolts onto the frame rails round the hitch. It's a good time to check your trailer wiring plug too; those tend to get corroded or cracked over time.
Are you able to Do It Your self?
One of the best points about the 2009 f150 bumper is that it's held on simply by real bolts, not really just plastic clips and prayers. In case you have a decent socket place and a bit of endurance, you can absolutely do this in your driveway.
However, a word of advice: obtain a buddy to help. These bumpers aren't exactly light, plus trying to hold a 50-pound item of chrome constant while you line up the bolts is a recipe for the scratched fender or a crushed toe.
You'll basically be hiking under the entrance or back, unbolting the main mounting brackets, and disconnecting any wiring makes use of for lights or even sensors. Once the old the first is away from, it's a "reverse of removal" circumstance. Just don't tighten everything down just about all the way till you've stepped back again and ensured the particular bumper is level. There's nothing worse than finishing a job only in order to realize your bumper is slanted 2 inches to the particular left.
Spending budget for the Task
Price-wise, you can find a primered 2009 f150 bumper for a couple hundred dollars if you're internet shopping. Chrome adds a bit more to the tag. If you're heading for a sophisticated off-road bumper, you could easily spend $1, 000 to $2, 000.
Don't forget the particular "hidden" costs. In case you get a paint-to-match bumper, a nearby entire body shop might cost $150–$300 to apply it to suit your needs. Also, if your installation brackets are rusted or bent from the crash, you'll have to replace those too, as they generally don't come along with the bumper face itself.
Keeping Your New Bumper Fresh
Once you've got that shiny new 2009 f150 bumper installed, you possibly want to keep this looking good. In case it's chrome, give it a good coating of wax every time you wash the truck. This particular creates a hurdle against salt and moisture. If it's painted, treat it like the rest associated with your truck's bodywork.
For those who proceeded to go with the black powder-coated aftermarket look, keep an attention out for chips. Powder coat is tough, but as soon as it chips, corrosion can start "tunneling" underneath the finish. A little bit associated with black touch-up paint goes a lengthy way in preventing a total refinish job three many years down the street.
At the end of the particular day, swapping out your 2009 f150 bumper is 1 of the most satisfying "weekend warrior" projects you can do. It totally refreshes the appearance associated with the truck plus makes it sense new again, even if it's got 200, 000 miles on the time clock. Whether you're taking a factory restoration or a custom build, it's an investment you'll see every time you walk out in order to your driveway.