Pre-installed Body Armor Problem

[chaseman210]

I ordered a Bronco from out of state, and it had dealer installed body armor. The Front hood piece isn't flush against the hood, and debris is beginning to get up under it and stuck between the piece and the paint. The dealer I ordered from told me I could take it to the nearest Ford dealer to get it fixed, but I'm worried about having to leave my car for however long with nothing to drive. One side is correct, but the other isn't. Any suggestions? Would this be covered under warranty since the dealer installed it? Thank you!

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[PWillette]

Highly unlikely it will be covered by warranty however the dealer should go good for fixing a sloppy install. Those things are only attached w/ double sided foam tape so repair isn't the best option. I'd press the dealer to send a replacement and install it myself.

 

[chaseman210]

Highly unlikely it will be covered by warranty however the dealer should go good for fixing a sloppy install. Those things are only attached w/ double sided foam tape so repair isn't the best option. I'd press the dealer to send a replacement and install it myself.

That's what I was thinking. I messaged the dealer I purchased from, and they told me to take it to my nearest dealer because I'm about 16 hours away. But I don't think a local dealer would replace something that another dealership messed up on.

 

[nwGTS]

If you'll be driving significantly and there's a long lead time I'd recommend you hit that gap with some silicone sealant to prevent debris and water from entering. It's easily removable with a plastic straight edge, adhesive remover and a quick buff once you do swap out the armor.

 

[chaseman210]

If you'll be driving significantly and there's a long lead time I'd recommend you hit that gap with some silicone sealant to prevent debris and water from entering. It's easily removable with a plastic straight edge, adhesive remover and a quick buff once you do swap out the armor.

Thank you for the advice! I'll have to look into doing that because debris is already getting stuck in the gap.

 

[nwGTS]

Thank you for the advice! I'll have to look into doing that because debris is already getting stuck in the gap.

A sealant will do no damage to your paint whereas road grit is going to scour that down eventually.

I plan on getting these and also plan on sealing the entire edge once they're on. Even a little gap is going to collect water and grit. Freezing and thawing is going to do a number on the paint and an aluminum hood where these are installed long term. I think they are a terrific idea but was disappointed to see they are only applied by 3M adhesive. Easy fix though and virtually invisible.
Good luck!

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