The procedure is identical for both the coupe and sedan across all trims, from the 2.4L LX to the 3.5L V6 EX-L.
Tools and Parts You’ll Need
| Item | Purpose | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| #2 Phillips screwdriver | Wheel lug nuts, fender liner screws | Standard tool, no specialty needed |
| Thin flathead screwdriver | Prying push clips | Reduces clip breakage vs. a wide blade |
| Trim clip tool (optional) | Stuck or dirt-filled clips | Saves tabs on older cars |
| Sleeping bag or thick padding | Under-car protection for the bumper | Prevents cracking when the cover drops |
| Replacement push clips | Grille cover and bottom edge | |
| Push pin clips (spares) | Post-clip and side positions | |
| Replacement bumper cover | Coupe or sedan specific | Covers from 2008–2012 fit, but body styles don’t swap |
Step-by-Step Removal and Installation
Removal
- Open the hood fully to the service position (the second latch detent) so you can reach the top grille clips.
- Remove the upper grille cover. Pry up the 8 push clips with a flathead screwdriver — start at one end, work the middle, then the outer edge. Pull the cover off the grille and slide it out from under the fenders.
- Remove the bottom clips. Lift the front of the car or remove the front wheel to reach the 10 push clips along the bumper’s bottom edge. Push the center pin in, then pry the clip body out.
- Release the side clips. Reach behind the fender liner on each side to find and remove the hidden clips (turning the wheel to full lock helps; removing the wheel is easier).
- Disconnect fog lights if your car has them — unplug the electrical connectors before pulling the bumper away.
- Release the bumper from the headlights. Pull back slightly at the two points where the bumper hooks over the headlight pins, then lift the bumper up and away.
- Place the bumper on padding (a sleeping bag works) to prevent cracking.
Installation
- Align the bumper tabs with the slots under the headlight housings. The two top holes must line up with the headlight pins first — the bumper should hang securely before you push anything.
- Push the bumper in only when the tabs are perfectly aligned. Forcing them will snap the plastic.
- Secure the fender liners by pushing the screws back in behind the liner on both sides.
- Reinstall the 10 bottom push clips along the lower edge. Replace any broken clips with new ones.
- Reinstall the upper grille cover. Tilt the front-facing part down, feed the hood release latch through its hole, and slide the cover behind the grille.
- Push in the 8 upper grille clips to lock everything in place.
- If you removed the front wheel, .
What Are the Most Common Mistakes?
Forcing tabs without perfect alignment. The plastic tabs inside the headlight slots break instantly if you push before the bumper is seated. Always verify alignment with gentle pressure first.
Pulling the bumper without disconnecting fog lights. Yanking the bumper forward snaps the fog light connectors. Disconnect them before you pull.
Letting the bumper hit the ground. The cover cracks easily on pavement. Slide padding under the car before you release it from the headlights.
Reusing broken push clips. A missing or cracked clip causes rattling and poor fitment. Buy spares ahead of time — they’re cheap.
FAQs
Can I use a bumper cover from a 2010 or 2012 Accord on my 2008?
Yes. Bumper covers from 2008 through 2012 are interchangeable within the generation, but coupe and sedan covers are not swappable. Always verify you’re buying the correct body style for your car.
Do I need to remove the wheels?
You can reach the fender liner clips without fully removing the wheels, but turning the wheel to full lock gives better access. Removing the wheel makes the job easier and is recommended for first-timers who want a clear view of the side clips.
How do I know which clips are broken and need replacing?
Inspect each clip as you remove it. A clip with a missing center pin, cracked outer ring, or deformed locking tab should be replaced. The OEM Bumper Clip B (part 91506-S9A-003) fits both the grille and bottom edge positions.
References & Sources
- HondaPartsOnline. “2008 Honda Accord LX-P Front Bumper and Components.” OEM parts diagram and clip part numbers for the 2008 Accord.
- Honda OEM Parts Online. “2008 Honda Accord EX-L Front Bumper Components.” Verifies clip counts and bumper compatibility across trims.