2009-2011 Honda Element Front Bumper Reinforcement: Beyond the Bumper Cover
This guide covers the essential steel reinforcement bar behind your Element's plastic bumper, focusing on inspection, part differences, and replacement costs.
- This reinforcement bar (71130-SCV-A50ZZ) fits all 2009-2011 Element models, but only the 2009-2010 SC trim.
- Failure is caused by impact or rust, not mileage. Symptoms include a misaligned bumper cover or visible damage.
- When buying used, inspect carefully for any bends, cracks, or signs of repair; minor surface rust is okay, but deep, flaky rust is a red flag.
- This is a critical safety component. A used OEM part is generally a safer choice than a new, cheap aftermarket alternative due to tested crash performance.
Symptoms of a Damaged Bumper Reinforcement
Unlike a mechanical part, a bumper reinforcement doesn't wear out with mileage. Failure is almost always caused by a physical impact or advanced corrosion. Here are the signs to look for:
- Visible Damage After an Accident: This is the most obvious symptom. Even a minor parking lot bump can be enough to bend the reinforcement bar. If the outer plastic bumper cover is cracked or heavily scuffed, the steel bar underneath has likely sustained damage as well.
- Misaligned Bumper Cover: If your plastic bumper cover sags, has uneven gaps with the headlights or fenders, or appears pushed in, it's a strong indicator that the reinforcement bar behind it is bent or its mounting brackets are damaged.
- Visible Rust: On older vehicles, especially in regions that use road salt, the reinforcement can rust severely. While light surface rust is cosmetic, deep, flaky corrosion can weaken the steel and compromise its structural integrity. A Reddit user noted this is a common issue on Hondas from this era, where rusty chunks can fall from behind the bumper cover.
Buying a Used 2009-2011 Element Bumper Reinforcement: An Inspection Guide
A used OEM reinforcement is an excellent value, offering the original factory fit and safety standards for a fraction of the new price. However, since this is a critical safety component, careful inspection is mandatory. Never install a damaged reinforcement bar.
Physical Inspection Checklist:
- Check for Bends and Kinks: Lay the bar on a flat surface. It should sit perfectly flat. Look down its length from both ends to spot any subtle bends or twists. A bent bar has already been compromised and will not absorb a future impact as designed.
- Inspect All Mounting Points: Examine the bolt holes where the bar attaches to the frame rails. Look for any signs of stress, such as cracks in the metal, elongated bolt holes, or evidence that the bar was torn from a vehicle.
- Look for Signs of Repair: A reputable seller won't offer a repaired bar, but check anyway. Look for grind marks, fresh welds, or areas with new paint that might hide previous damage. The factory finish is typically a simple black coating.
- Assess the Level of Rust: Minor surface rust can be cleaned with a wire brush and treated with a rust-inhibiting paint before installation. However, if the rust is deep, causing pitting or flaking (delamination), the part is structurally weakened and should be rejected.
Pro Tip: An OEM reinforcement will often have a sticker with the Honda part number or stampings on the metal itself. Aftermarket parts may look similar but often lack these specific OEM markings. When buying used, you are getting the benefit of proven factory engineering, so ensure it's a genuine OEM part.
Known Issues, Recalls, and Service Bulletins
There are no recalls or Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) issued by Honda or the NHTSA specifically for the front bumper reinforcement on the 2009-2011 Element. The numerous recalls for this vehicle are almost exclusively for the Takata airbag inflators, with one recall concerning an accessory trailer hitch wiring harness. The primary known issue, based on owner reports, is the potential for significant rust in salt-belt states.
Cost of Replacement (2009-2011 Honda Element)
The cost to replace the front bumper reinforcement can vary significantly based on the part source and labor rates.
| Part/Service | Estimated Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| New OEM (Dealer) | $165 - $250 | Genuine Honda part with guaranteed fit and performance. |
| New Aftermarket | $50 - $150 | Cheaper alternative, but material quality and crash performance may not match OEM standards. |
| Used OEM | $75 - $125 | Best value, offering OEM quality at a lower price. Price varies by condition and salvage yard. |
| Shop Labor | $100 - $250 | Includes removing the bumper cover, swapping the reinforcement, and reassembly. The Element has no complex sensors, making labor straightforward. |
Installation Overview & Difficulty
- Difficulty Rating: 2 out of 5
- Estimated Time: 1.5 hours
- DIY Feasible: Yes
Replacing the front bumper reinforcement is a manageable DIY job for someone with basic tools. The process involves removing the plastic bumper cover first. This is typically held on by a series of plastic clips under the hood, screws in each front wheel well, and sometimes fasteners underneath. Once the cover is off, the steel reinforcement bar is exposed, attached to the two frame rails with several bolts. The process is simply to unbolt the old bar and bolt the new one in its place before reinstalling the bumper cover.
Warning: Plastic clips on an older vehicle can become brittle and break during removal. It's wise to have a few spare clips on hand before starting the job.
Part Number and Vehicle Fitment Guide
This part fits all trim levels of the 2009-2011 Honda Element, but with one key exception for the SC model.
- OEM Part Number: 71130-SCV-A50ZZ (also appears as 71130SCVA50)
- Partslink Number: HO1006181 (This is an industry-standard number for cross-referencing aftermarket parts)
Vehicle Fitment:
- 2009-2011 Honda Element LX
- 2009-2011 Honda Element EX
- 2009-2010 Honda Element SC
While the SC (Sport Compact) model has a different, more aggressive front bumper cover, the underlying steel reinforcement bar is the same as the LX and EX for 2009 and 2010. The SC model was discontinued after 2010.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I drive with a bent or rusted bumper reinforcement?
While the vehicle may still drive, it is not safe. A damaged reinforcement will not protect you, your passengers, or your vehicle's critical components in another collision. It is strongly recommended to replace it as soon as possible.
Is a cheap aftermarket reinforcement as good as an OEM one?
Not necessarily. The OEM part is made from specific materials and engineered to deform in a precise way during a crash. An aftermarket part may not have undergone the same level of testing, potentially altering crash performance and safety. For a critical safety item, a used OEM part is often a better choice than a new, cheap aftermarket one.
Does the reinforcement bar affect the fit of the bumper cover?
Yes, absolutely. The plastic bumper cover mounts to points on and around the reinforcement bar. If the bar is bent, even slightly, the bumper cover will not align correctly, resulting in unsightly gaps with the fenders and headlights.
Does the front reinforcement bar differ between the EX, LX, and SC models?
No. The same reinforcement bar, part number 71130-SCV-A50ZZ, is used on all 2009-2011 EX and LX models, as well as the 2009-2010 SC models. The visible cosmetic differences are in the plastic bumper cover, not the steel bar behind it.
Technical Specifications
OEM Part Numbers: 71130-SCV-A50ZZ 71130SCVA50
Material: Steel. Replaces Partslink: HO1006181.
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.
- Honda Element:
- Symptoms of a Damaged Bumper Reinforcement
- Buying a Used 2009-2011 Element Bumper Reinforcement: An Inspection Guide
- Physical Inspection Checklist:
- Known Issues, Recalls, and Service Bulletins
- Cost of Replacement (2009-2011 Honda Element)
- Installation Overview & Difficulty
- Part Number and Vehicle Fitment Guide
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
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