2019-2022 Acura ILX Rear Bumper Absorber: A Guide to This Critical Safety Foam
This essential foam piece behind your bumper cover is a one-time-use part that's critical for absorbing impact energy in a collision.
- This part fits 2019-2022 Acura ILX models only; it is not compatible with earlier years.
- The bumper absorber is a one-time-use safety part. If it's damaged or compressed in any way, it MUST be replaced.
- Aftermarket options are generally not available; replacement choices are new OEM or a damage-free used OEM part.
- Replacement is a DIY-friendly job that requires removing the rear bumper cover, taking about 1-1.5 hours.
Symptoms of a Damaged Rear Bumper Absorber
Unlike mechanical parts, a bumper absorber doesn't wear out over time. It fails when it does its job: getting hit. The only symptom of failure is visible damage after a rear-end impact.
- Visible Damage After Impact: This is the most obvious sign. After any rear collision, no matter how minor, the bumper cover should be removed to inspect the absorber. Look for cracks, tears, or areas where the foam has been compressed and has not returned to its original shape.
- Loose or Rattling Bumper Cover: If the absorber is broken into pieces, it may no longer properly support the bumper cover, causing it to feel loose or make rattling noises while driving.
- Misaligned Bumper Cover: A damaged or missing absorber can cause the flexible bumper cover to have gaps or sit unevenly against the body of the car.
Warning: Never reuse a damaged bumper absorber. Once it has been compressed or cracked in an impact, it loses its ability to properly absorb energy in a future collision. It must be replaced.
Buying a Used 2019-2022 ILX Rear Bumper Absorber
Because this part is a simple piece of foam, a used OEM absorber is an excellent way to save money, provided it is in perfect condition. Aftermarket options for this specific part are not common, making used OEM a primary choice for budget-conscious repairs.
What to Inspect Before You Buy:
- Check for Compression: Look at the foam structure carefully. There should be no areas that look flattened, crushed, or permanently indented. The entire surface should be uniform.
- Inspect for Cracks and Tears: Any crack, no matter how small, is a point of failure. The part must be completely intact. Pay close attention to the corners and mounting areas.
- Verify Part Number: Ensure the part is a genuine OEM part. The correct part number for the 2019-2022 Acura ILX is 71570-T3R-A00 (or 71570T3RA00). This part is specific to the facelifted models from 2019 onward.
- Ask About the Donor Vehicle: Ask the seller if the part came from a vehicle that was in a rear-end collision. Reputable sellers will only offer absorbers from vehicles that had no rear damage.
Known Issues, TSBs, and Recalls
As of mid-2026, there are no specific recalls or Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) from Acura or the NHTSA related to the rear bumper absorber for the 2019-2022 Acura ILX. While the ILX has recalls for other issues like the fuel pump and brake master cylinder, the bumper components are not affected.
Replacement Difficulty and Procedure
Replacing the rear bumper absorber requires removing the rear bumper cover first. The job is straightforward for a DIYer with basic tools.
- Difficulty: 2 out of 5
- Estimated Time: 1 - 1.5 hours
- Tools Needed: Phillips screwdriver, flat-head screwdriver or trim removal tool, 10mm socket (possible), and a blanket to place the bumper cover on.
General Replacement Steps:
- Open the trunk and remove any clips or bolts securing the top edge of the bumper cover.
- In each rear wheel well, remove the Phillips head screws that attach the bumper cover to the fender liner and body.
- Underneath the vehicle, remove several plastic push-clips that hold the bottom of the bumper cover to the underbody trays.
- Gently but firmly pull the sides of the bumper cover away from the car to release the retaining tabs under the taillights.
- If your vehicle has parking sensors, carefully disconnect the wiring harness before fully removing the bumper cover. Place the cover on a soft blanket to avoid scratches.
- The bumper absorber is now exposed. It simply pulls off the mounting points on the metal reinforcement bar.
- Press the new or replacement absorber into place and reinstall the bumper cover in the reverse order of removal.
Pro Tip: When removing the plastic push-clips, use a dedicated trim removal tool to avoid breaking them. If you do break one, they are inexpensive and readily available at auto parts stores.
Cost Comparison for a 2019-2022 ILX Rear Bumper Absorber
| Part Type | Estimated Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| New OEM | $20 - $30 | Readily available from Acura dealers and online retailers. |
| Used OEM | $50 - $75 | A good value if inspected carefully for damage. Price often includes shipping. |
| New Aftermarket | Not Available | Due to the low cost of the OEM part, aftermarket manufacturers generally do not produce this specific foam absorber. |
| Shop Labor | $150 - $250 | Based on 1-1.5 hours of labor to remove and reinstall the bumper cover. The absorber replacement itself adds no extra time. |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I drive without a rear bumper absorber?
Yes, the car is physically drivable without the absorber. However, it is not recommended. Without it, even a very minor tap to the rear bumper could cause significant damage to the bumper cover, reinforcement bar, and other body panels, leading to a much more expensive repair.
What is the difference between the bumper absorber and the bumper reinforcement?
The bumper absorber is the block of foam that sits directly behind the plastic bumper cover. The bumper reinforcement is the strong metal bar (usually steel or aluminum) that is mounted to the vehicle's frame behind the absorber. The foam absorber handles low-speed impacts, while the metal reinforcement bar protects the car's structure in more significant collisions.
Why can't I find an aftermarket rear bumper absorber for my 2022 ILX?
The genuine Acura OEM rear bumper absorber is a relatively inexpensive part, typically costing under $30 new. Because the original part is so affordable, there is little financial incentive for aftermarket companies to tool up and manufacture a replacement. For this reason, new OEM or used OEM are your main options.
Does the rear bumper absorber fit other Acura models or older ILX years?
No, part number 71570-T3R-A00 is specifically for the 2019, 2020, 2021, and 2022 Acura ILX models that received a significant styling update (facelift). It will not fit ILX models from 2013-2018.
Technical Specifications
OEM Part Numbers: 71570-T3R-A00 71570T3RA00
Material: Energy-absorbing foam. Position: Rear. Fits: 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022 Acura ILX.
The information in this article is provided for general reference and educational purposes only. Vehicle specifications, procedures, and part compatibility can vary by production date, trim level, and region. Always consult your vehicle's factory service manual and verify part numbers before purchasing or performing repairs. Safety-critical components such as airbags, seat belts, and braking systems should be installed by a qualified professional.
- Acura ILX:
- Symptoms of a Damaged Rear Bumper Absorber
- Buying a Used 2019-2022 ILX Rear Bumper Absorber
- What to Inspect Before You Buy:
- Known Issues, TSBs, and Recalls
- Replacement Difficulty and Procedure
- General Replacement Steps:
- Cost Comparison for a 2019-2022 ILX Rear Bumper Absorber
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
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