2012-2017 Fiat 500 Fog Light Grille: A Guide to Fitment, Damage, and Replacement
This is your definitive reference for replacing a cracked or missing fog light grille on a 2012-2017 Fiat 500, ensuring you get the right part for your trim level.
- Compatibility is determined by having factory fog lights, not just the 'Lounge' trim level; Pop and Sport models with optional fog lights use the same part.
- When buying used, the single most important thing to check is that all mounting tabs on the back of the grille are present and intact.
- The left (driver) and right (passenger) side grilles are different, non-interchangeable parts with unique part numbers.
- Replacement is a simple DIY job that usually does not require removing the front bumper and can be done with plastic pry tools.
Symptoms of Failure
Since the fog light grille is a passive plastic component, symptoms of failure are purely visual and physical. There are no associated dashboard warning lights or OBD codes for this part.
- Visible Cracks or Holes: The most common symptom is physical damage from impacts. This can range from small cracks to large, shattered sections.
- Loose Fit or Rattling: The grille is held in by a series of plastic clips. Over time, or after a minor bump, these clips can break, causing the grille to become loose, vibrate, or rattle while driving.
- Missing Grille: It's not uncommon for a grille with broken tabs to be knocked completely out of the bumper by road forces or even a high-pressure car wash.
- Faded or Discolored Plastic: On older vehicles or those with high sun exposure, the black plastic can fade to a chalky gray, detracting from the vehicle's appearance.
Buying a Used Fog Light Grille
A used OEM grille is often an excellent value, providing the same fit and quality as a new part for a fraction of the price. However, careful inspection is key.
Verifying Compatibility: It's About the Fog Lights, Not Just the Trim
Warning: The most critical factor for fitment is whether your Fiat 500 has factory-installed fog lights, not just its trim level. While fog lights were standard on the 'Lounge' trim, they were optional on 'Pop' and 'Sport' models. This grille will only fit bumpers designed for fog lights.
Before ordering, visually confirm that your car has the round fog lamps in the lower bumper. These grilles will not fit a base model bumper that does not have the provisions for fog lights. Also, note that the grilles are side-specific; the left (driver side) and right (passenger side) are not interchangeable.
Physical Inspection Checklist
When examining a used fog light grille, focus on the back side:
- All Mounting Tabs Intact: This is the most important checkpoint. Carefully inspect every single clip and tab around the perimeter of the grille. Even one broken tab can compromise the fit and lead to rattling or the part falling off.
- No Major Cracks: Check for cracks that go all the way through the plastic. Minor surface scuffs or scratches on the front are purely cosmetic and can often be polished or treated with plastic restorer, but structural cracks are a deal-breaker.
- Part Number Verification: If possible, match the part number on the back of the grille to the known OEM numbers to ensure you have the correct part for your vehicle's year range.
Why Used OEM is a Smart Choice
For a cosmetic part like this, the precision of the original factory mold is important. Used OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) grilles are guaranteed to fit perfectly, snapping securely into the bumper just like the original. Aftermarket grilles can be cheaper, but often suffer from brittle plastic, a poor fit, and clips that don't engage properly, leading to a frustrating installation and a part that may not sit flush with the bumper.
Known Issues
The primary known issue with these grilles is the fragility of their mounting tabs. Forum users and owners report that the grilles can become loose or fall out after even minor impacts with curbs or road debris. The clips are the weak point, and once they are broken, the grille will not seat securely.
Replacement Guide
Replacing the fog light grille is a straightforward task suitable for most DIY mechanics.
- Difficulty: 2 out of 5
- Estimated Time: 0.5 hours
- Tools Required: Plastic trim removal tools (recommended), flathead screwdriver (use with caution).
While some official procedures may call for removing the front bumper, it is often not necessary.
- Using a plastic pry tool, carefully begin to work around the edge of the old grille, releasing the clips that hold it into the bumper cover. Using plastic tools is highly recommended to avoid scratching the bumper's paint.
- Work your way around the grille until all clips are disengaged and you can pull it straight out.
- For easier access to the clips from behind, some owners find it helpful to turn the steering wheel to one side and remove a few screws from the wheel well liner, allowing them to reach inside the bumper cover. 🎬 Watch this video guide on replacing Fiat 500 fog lights.
- To install the new grille, simply align it with the opening and press it firmly into place. The clips should make an audible 'click' as they engage. Ensure all clips are fully seated for a secure fit.
Pro Tip: Before snapping the new grille in, clean the opening in the bumper to ensure there is no dirt or debris that could interfere with the clips seating properly.
Cost Comparison
| Part Type | Estimated Cost (Per Side) |
|---|---|
| New OEM | $40 - $60 |
| New Aftermarket | $15 - $30 |
| Used OEM | $25 - $45 |
| Shop Labor | $50 - $100 |
Technical Specifications & Part Numbers
These part numbers are for the fog light grilles/bezels on 2012-2017 Fiat 500 models equipped with fog lamps. They are side-specific.
- Right (Passenger Side) Fog Light Grille: 68206911AA, 1TP96KX7AB
- Left (Driver Side) Fog Light Grille: 68206912AA
Part Number Confusion: The part number 1TP95KX7AA is often associated with this vehicle, but it refers to the center lower grille, not the individual fog light grilles. Ensure you are purchasing the correct side-specific fog light bezel.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Will this grille fit my Fiat 500 Pop?
It will fit if your Fiat 500 Pop is equipped with the optional factory fog lights. The determining factor is the presence of fog lights, not the trim name itself.
Do I have to remove the front bumper to replace this part?
No, in most cases you do not need to remove the bumper. The grille can be carefully pried out from the front or accessed by partially opening the wheel well liner.
Is the grille the same for the driver and passenger side?
No, the grilles are mirror images of each other and are not interchangeable. You must order the specific part for the left or right side.
My grille fell out. Can I just snap a new one in?
Yes, as long as the mounting slots in the bumper cover itself are not cracked or broken, a new grille should snap directly into place.
Are there any recalls for this part?
No, there are no recalls from the NHTSA related to the fog light grilles for the 2012-2017 Fiat 500.
Helpful Videos
Technical Specifications
OEM Part Numbers: Right Side: 68206911AA, 1TP96KX7AB Left Side: 68206912AA
Material: Automotive-grade plastic. Finish: Textured black.
We Have This Part in Stock
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.
- Fiat 500:
- 🎬 Helpful Videos
- 🛍️ Shop This Part
- Symptoms of Failure
- Buying a Used Fog Light Grille
- Verifying Compatibility: It's About the Fog Lights, Not Just the Trim
- Physical Inspection Checklist
- Why Used OEM is a Smart Choice
- Known Issues
- Replacement Guide
- Cost Comparison
- Technical Specifications & Part Numbers
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
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