2022-2025 Ford Maverick Rear Bumper Absorber: Replacement & Exhaust Melt Warning
This guide covers the replacement of the rear bumper absorber, including part numbers, costs, and a known issue of exhaust heat melting the bumper.
- This is a one-time-use safety part that must be replaced after any rear impact, no matter how minor.
- The updated OEM part number is NZ6Z-17754-D, which supersedes NZ6Z-17754-B.
- A known issue on Mavericks is the exhaust melting the plastic bumper cover, which can also damage the absorber behind it.
- Replacement requires removing the entire rear bumper cover, a job that can take a DIYer several hours.
Symptoms of a Failed Rear Bumper Absorber
The rear bumper absorber is a passive component, meaning it doesn't have electrical parts or moving pieces that wear out over time. Failure is almost always the result of a physical impact.
- Visible Damage After an Accident: The most obvious symptom is damage seen after a rear-end collision. Even if the outer painted bumper cover pops back out, the absorber behind it may be cracked or crushed. Any visible cracks, dents, or compression in the absorber means it needs to be replaced.
- Loose or Misaligned Bumper Cover: If the absorber is broken into pieces or missing entirely, it can cause the flexible outer bumper cover to fit loosely. You might notice uneven gaps where the bumper meets the body panels or that the corner of the bumper can be easily pushed in.
Known Issues for 2022-2025 Ford Maverick
Exhaust Heat Melting Bumper Cover
Several Ford Maverick owners have reported the plastic rear bumper cover melting from the heat of the exhaust tip. This issue appears on both the 2.0L EcoBoost and Hybrid models, but can be more common when towing, which increases exhaust temperatures. In some cases, the exhaust hanger may be misaligned, causing the exhaust tip to sit too close to the plastic bumper fascia. While this damage primarily affects the outer bumper cover, the prolonged and intense heat could potentially degrade the integrity of the bumper absorber located directly behind it. When inspecting your bumper for any reason, check the area around the exhaust for signs of melting or discoloration.
Warning: There are no official recalls from Ford or the NHTSA for this specific part as of mid-2026. However, numerous recalls exist for other issues on the 2022-2025 Maverick, so it is always wise to check your vehicle's VIN for any open safety campaigns.
Buying a Used Rear Bumper Absorber
Since this is a safety item, buying a used bumper absorber requires careful inspection. However, a good used OEM part can be a cost-effective alternative to a new one, while offering better fit and material quality than a cheap aftermarket version.
- Inspect for Any Compression: The absorber should have a uniform, undamaged surface. Look for any areas that appear compressed, puckered, or indented. Compare it to photos of a new part to ensure the shape is correct. A compressed absorber has already done its job and will not provide adequate protection.
- Check for Cracks and Tears: Carefully inspect the entire part, especially around the mounting points, for any cracks, splits, or tears. Even a small crack can compromise its ability to distribute energy correctly in an impact.
- Look for Heat Damage: Given the known issue with exhaust heat, inspect the lower section of the absorber for any signs of melting, warping, or brittleness.
- Verify Part Numbers: Ensure the part is a genuine Ford component. The correct, updated part number is NZ6Z-17754-D, which replaces the earlier NZ6Z-17754-B. The Partslink number is FO1140109.
- Source is Everything: Only buy a used absorber from a reputable seller who can guarantee the part came from a vehicle that did not sustain a rear-end collision.
Installation and Replacement
Replacing the rear bumper absorber requires the complete removal of the rear bumper cover. While this is feasible for a patient DIYer, it can be a time-consuming process.
Installation Difficulty: 3 out of 5
Estimated DIY Time: 2-4 hours
Based on owner experiences, the process generally involves these steps:
- Remove numerous fasteners: There are many screws and bolts holding the bumper cover on. Most require a 7mm socket, but some may be 8mm. They are located under the bumper, inside the wheel wells, and near the tailgate.
- Disconnect wiring: Unplug any wiring for license plate lights or backup sensors before fully removing the bumper.
- Remove the bumper cover: Once all fasteners and wiring are disconnected, the cover can be carefully pulled away from the vehicle.
- Transfer the absorber: The absorber is attached to the inside of the old bumper cover. It must be unclipped and transferred to the new cover. A forum user noted that the clips holding it can be difficult to remove without breaking, so it may be wise to have new clips on hand.
- Reinstallation: The process is the reverse of removal. Take care to align the bumper cover correctly before tightening all fasteners.
Pro Tip: Keep your bolts organized. One owner who did the job himself recommended using separate containers for the 7mm and 8mm bolts to avoid confusion during reassembly.
Cost Comparison (2022-2025 Ford Maverick)
| Part Type | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| New OEM (Ford) | $150 - $170 |
| New Aftermarket | $70 - $110 |
| Used OEM | $60 - $90 |
| Shop Labor for Replacement | $290 - $525 |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I reuse my bumper absorber after a minor accident?
No. The bumper absorber is a one-time-use safety component. Even if it looks okay after a minor bump, it may have internal cracks or be partially compressed, which reduces its effectiveness in a future collision. For safety, it should always be replaced after any impact.
Is the bumper absorber the same as the bumper reinforcement bar?
No. The bumper absorber is the lightweight foam or plastic piece. The bumper reinforcement is the heavy steel bar mounted to the vehicle's frame. The absorber sits in front of the reinforcement bar to cushion low-speed impacts.
My bumper is melted near the exhaust. Does this mean the absorber is bad?
Not necessarily, but it's a cause for concern. The melting plastic is the outer bumper cover. You would need to remove the cover to inspect the absorber for heat damage like warping or brittleness. If the cover is being replaced due to melting, it is a good idea to inspect the absorber and replace it if it shows any signs of heat damage.
Why is professional installation recommended if it's just a piece of plastic?
The recommendation is due to the labor involved. The entire rear bumper cover, along with its sensors and lights, must be removed to access the absorber. This can be complex, and improper reinstallation can lead to poor fitment, sensor errors, or damage to the paint or bumper cover.
Technical Specifications
OEM Part Numbers: NZ6Z-17754-D NZ6Z-17754-B NZ6Z17754D NZ6Z17754B
Partslink Number: FO1140109 Material: Polypropylene Plastic or similar energy-absorbing foam/plastic
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.
- Ford Maverick: