So I got the original idea from threads like:
https://acurazine.com/forums/showthread.php?t=98149
https://acurazine.com/forums/showthread.php?t=101254


I tried the mod using 'Trimbrite' door molding (from pep boys) many months ago. I liked the way it looked from the front, but did not like how when standing in from of the car you could see how the chrome didn't cover the whole depth of plastic bar. The bar measures about 1 inch deep, and the molding is between 1/4 -1/2 in. So I took off the door molding and thought about other ways to accomplish this.

So here is my twist on it. I used metallic chrome tape on the inserts. It is definitely a difficult task due to the curvature of the insert and how you will need to bend the tape around it. I applied the tape to the top lip of the bar first, then to the front, and lastly the bottom (which is where the creases will be). You will get creases no matter what due to the curvature, so the bottom is the best place. Since the tape covers the whole bar, i'm fixing the problem of coverage caused by the door molding. It seems best to try cutting the tape to fit first then trying to apply it first, then cut due to the vertical bars.

And now for some pics:


The application process (top first):


below you will see some creases starting from the bottom edge:


finished inserts on passenger seat & the template I had to make to get the cut right:


chrome reflection on the whole piece:


I will try and post more pictures later. I just did this yesterday, and put them on my car this morning. I have no idea how well these will hold up yet. I've read from the people using the door molding the the chrome starts to bubble and come off, but this is different.

If you are worried about ruining your current ones, you can purchase the inserts new from acuraoemparts.com for 5.26 a piece.

What do you guys think?

 

That looks good!

 

great idea... i was having the same thought as you abou tit not covering the whole area.... I may try this...

How will the chrome tape hold up to weather and washing?

 

I did this about a year ago and the strips hold up ok but will need replacing soon. It was an easy job and the strips are cheap so no big deal.

 

Here are a few more pics:

 

What's wrong with the ones you currently have on? peeling off? just dirty? faded?

 

Whats involved with taking out the grills?

 

There are 4 tabs that snap into place on both the top and bottom of the grills. You can reach most of the ones that are closest to the center of the bumper by just reaching up from underneith with your hand, pressing the tabs and pulling it out. For the other ones on the side edges, you will need a flathead screwdriver and try not to scratch your paint.

 

I know I've read on here in a previous thread that the inserts are easy to remove, but I'd hate to break one of those clips!!!

If I knew that this mod was screw-up free, I might just do it...WOW, I really want to try this.

Anyway, looks sharp!!!

How hard is it to keep from scratching your paint?

 

FYI, I bought the tape at Pep Boys. It's made by Trimbrite, part T1818

 

Thanks, I'll check it out. Any bubbling or sun/humidity problems yet?

 

It hasn't been warm enough around here yet to really 'test it' if there is a hot day I plan to just go over it once more to make sure it sticks well when heated. I'll let everyone know how they turn out after a few weeks.

 

I'm gonna check that tape out too. Even on my old 350z, when I would put the chrome strips, water would get in them and they would start to look terrible. This looks like a much better option.

Good find.

Now I just need to find a pepboys...