Hey everybody. This thread may be a little redundant since others have already done this. I decided to swap out the front fascia (and rear diffuser) on my G8 GT after the factory paint started chipping away. Instead of letting the paint get worse, and paying a shop to sand it down and repaint, I touched up the chips and started looking into the conversion.

My goals for this thread: Provide a comprehensive DIY source of directions for the conversion, compile all the helpful information this board has on the swap, and provide the most updated info I could get when I did mine.

Here's some useful links:
Most of the part numbers: http://www.g8board.com/forums/showthread.php?t=11789.
Biohazard's front fascia swap: http://www.g8board.com/forums/showthread.php?t=11891.
Nikeair042's rear diffuser swap: http://www.g8board.com/forums/showthread.php?t=17634.
G8 Paint Info: http://www.g8board.com/forums/showthread.php?t=16108


Next, my parts list and order info:
1.) Front fascia: GM part# 92213340: List $166.31, Net $107.93 – Ordered on 6/30/09, Received on 7/09/2009.
2.) Lower front fascia Insert: GM part# 92224778: List $61.49, Net $39.91 – Ordered on 6/30/09, Received on 7/23/2009.
3.) Front fascia grille: GM part# 92213351: List $59.20, Net $38.42 – Ordered on6/30/09, Received on 7/09/2009.
4.) Rear fascia diffuser: GM part# 92213320: List $88.73, Net $57.59 – Ordered on 6/30/09, Received 7/25/2009.
5.) RH fog light trim: GM part# 92213349 – List $12.34, N/A in US, Net $32.50 – Ordered on 7/28/09, Received 8/5/2009. Note: Crazy Paul got me the P/N.6.) LH fog light trim: GM part# 92213350 – List $12.34, N/A in US, Net $32.50 – Ordered on 7/28/09, Received 8/5/2009. Note: Crazy Paul got me the P/N.
7.) Pontiac “Arrowhead” emblem: GM part# 92205700 – List $83.93, Net $10.00, Ordered on 7/31/09 (bid on 7/25/09), Received 8/5/2009.
You'll also need 4 push pins to attach the insert.

Here’s the story behind getting my parts:
Parts 1-4 were ordered from Thornhill Chevrolet, where my brother-in-law works. He got me a break on the prices. I have to give credit to the guys at the parts counter too. They went out of their way to make sure I had the right part numbers, and even help look for the elusive fog bezels. They made several phone calls but couldn't find anything.

Parts 5-6 were tough. I contacted a member here on 6/16/09 who was able to get a set for his car. He had both parts for me by 7/10/09, but by 7/28/09 we still hadn't worked out payment. I gave up and ordered them from Crazy Paul (HSV-GTS-300) on 7/28/09. He rocks! He's on the opposite side of the world and has the quickest response time in the business, plus really fast shipping! I paid $65.00 for both, shipped from Australia. His part numbers were different than what was on the parts I recieved but my parts were right. His numbers are in GMPD's system now so hopefully you can get them easy.

Part 7 was purchased from ebay seller ddub2501-2009). It's a true G8 front bumper badge that was removed when a bumper was replaced at his shop. It looked perfect when I received it on 8/5/09.

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Here's the info on painting the bumper:
I highly suggest you shop around since the quotes vary wildly. My front fascia just needed Base Coat/Clear Coat (not a tint coat or tri-color deal).
Note: The dealership will want your VIN and your Paint Code to quote a price.

I contacted the following shops:
Hurricane Chevrolet - 6/29/2009 - Phone: 304-562-3005. Rep: Parker or Trevor. Price quoted: $215.00
Joe Holland Chevrolet on 6/29/2009 - Phone: 304-744-1561. Rep: Andy. Price quoted: $376.40
Turnpike Chevrolet on 6/29/2009 - Phone: 304-755-8301. Rep: Ernie. Price quoted: $305.67
Moses Cadillac on 6/29/2009 - Phone: 304-343-5534. Rep: Eric. Price quoted: $405.90

Reason: Rock chips, parking scrapes, and I wanted to swap.
Color: Ignition Orange Metallic, Color code: 77U
Paint sample image:
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v288/ThatFreakBob/G8/Paint/IgnitionOrangeMetallic.jpg

Dealer chosen to paint bumper: Hurricane Chevrolet. Dealer phone: 304-562-3005. Original contact date: 6/29/2009, Contact: Parker – Quoted $215.00. Secondary contact date: 7/22/2009, Secondary contact: Trevor – Confirmed Price.
Notes: You need to bring your 17 digit VIN for the vehicle repair work order, and paint code (WA or BC-CC code, it can be found under the spare tire cover in trunk, mine was last code listed).

Date fascia was left: 7/23/2009, Date fascia was ready: 7/24/2009.
Labor & parts: $120.00, Supplies: $82.83, Tax: $12.17
Paint total: $215.00.

The finished fascia paint surface looks excellent in my opinion, but there were 3 flecks of dust noticeable. Nobody has seen it other than me, and I don't point it out to people. Trevor at Hurricane Chevrolet said “Once you have it installed, just stop by the shop here and we can take care of that no problem.” So far, they've been great to me.
Total cost of conversion: $548.48.

Step by step install directions will follow in multiple posts below:

Front Fascia Swap:
Here's a list of tools I got out:
3/8" Drive Socket Set, and an Air Ratchet
6" Long 3/8" Ratchet/Socket Extension
2 Flat Blade Screwdrivers
1 Small Pocket/Pen Sized Flat Blade Screwdriver
1 Phillips Screwdriver
1 Curved Pick
1 Metal Putty Knife
Power Drill
1/8" Drill Bit
1 Utility Knife
1 Rivet Gun and 2 rivets 1/8" diameter with 3/8" head
NOTE: Keep all your parts together in one place where they won’t get kicked under the car.... don't ask.

Step 1: Remove the lower fog light surrounds so you can remove your fog lights. The grilles come lose pretty easy until you get to the stiffer material around the fog lights. Start near an edge with your fingers in the honeycomb and pull. You'll have to pry with your fingers when you get near the fog lights.
http://i949.photobucket.com/albums/ad340/SilvaChris1/PICT0023.jpg

Step 2: With the hood up, remove the two 10mm bolts and two push pins from the upper portion of the bumper along the radiator core support.
http://i949.photobucket.com/albums/ad340/SilvaChris1/PICT0004.jpg

Step 3: Under the car, remove the four 7mm bolts along the bottom near the front edge of the bumper.

Step 4: Turn your steering wheel all the way to one side. Then choose a wheel well to start on. Start removing push pins from the liner with a pick. You may have to turn the steering wheel to the opposite side to get to the other pins that you couldn't see because of the tire. I removed ALL of the push pins and the Phillips screw near the ground effects, and pulled the whole liner out. In hindsight, only the pins nearest to the front bumper and up above the tire needed removed.

Step 5: Remove the nuts/bolts that hold the bumper to the fender. If you didn't completely remove the liner, just pull it back from the bumper toward the tire to gain access to the nuts/bolts. Note: The nuts don't have a hex head, they are held in place by the hex shape in the plastic bracket.
http://i949.photobucket.com/albums/ad340/SilvaChris1/PICT0009.jpg

Step 6: Repeat Steps 4-5 for the side of the car that you haven't been to yet.

Step 7: Remove the bumper. You'll notice that it still feels like it's being held in place somewhere under each headlight. It is. There are two tabs under each headlight that clip the bumper in place. Starting on one side of the car, gently pull outward/downward on the bumper (from the edge near the wheel well) until a small gap between the bumper and headlight forms. Insert small flat blade screw driver into that gap and press down on the black tabs that hold the bumper in place. Below, you can barely see the black tab in the surrounding orange material.
http://i949.photobucket.com/albums/ad340/SilvaChris1/PICT0011.jpg

The tabs are here:
http://i949.photobucket.com/albums/ad340/SilvaChris1/PICT0014.jpg

And here:
http://i949.photobucket.com/albums/ad340/SilvaChris1/PICT0013.jpg

You can see them both clearly in this picture where the tabs have been released:
http://i949.photobucket.com/albums/ad340/SilvaChris1/PICT0015.jpg
Once one side of the bumper is free release the other side.

Step 8: Gently set the bumper on the ground and unhook the wires from your fog lights and park lights. The park lights need twisted and then pulled outward from their housing.
http://i949.photobucket.com/albums/ad340/SilvaChris1/PICT0020.jpg

The fog light wires just have squeeze clips securing them.
http://i949.photobucket.com/albums/ad340/SilvaChris1/PICT0021.jpg

I unhooked the harness from the car at the frame because I thought it would be easier. It is located here if you think it will help you out, but you shouldn't really have to unhook it.
http://i949.photobucket.com/albums/ad340/SilvaChris1/PICT0017.jpg

Step 9: Remove the wire harness from the bumper and lay it out on the ground the same way you removed it so you don't mix up your lighting (shouldn't be possible to mess up?). To remove the harness pull loose the plastic covered metal wire holders that clasp onto the bumper. They kind of bite onto the plastic.
http://i949.photobucket.com/albums/ad340/SilvaChris1/PICT0022.jpg

Step 10: Remove the park light and fog light housings by squeezing their tabs inside the bumper, and then just pull them out. Don't let the park light housing fall out and hit the floor/ground.
http://i949.photobucket.com/albums/ad340/SilvaChris1/PICT0019.jpg
http://i949.photobucket.com/albums/ad340/SilvaChris1/PICT0027.jpg

Step 11: Remove the kidney grilles from the original bumper. This is arguably the most difficult part of the swap. First you'll want a nice surface to work on (if you're trying to preserve your original bumper anyways). I placed mine on a cardboard box (cut to lay flat) and a blanket. Take a look at the grilles from the back side of the bumper. Note that you will *NOT* be prying on the silver tongs. These attach the chrome trim to the black honeycomb. You need to pry around the black tabs that insert into the slots on your bumper. The honeycomb and chrome trim will come out as one piece. The easiest way to remove them was to insert a putty knife between the grille and the bumper right at one of the black tabs, and push outward. Put one hand on the other side of the bumper to keep it from deflecting while you push. This hand should be near the grille, but not pushing in on it (don't want to fight yourself here, the car is tough enough). After prying a few tabs loose, the grille should come out pretty easy.
http://i949.photobucket.com/albums/ad340/SilvaChris1/PICT0040.jpg

Step 12: Remove the plastic Fender/Bumper support brackets from each side of the bumper. They are riveted to the under side of bumper where it bolts to the fender. You'll need to drill the rivet out with a 1/8" bit.
http://i949.photobucket.com/albums/ad340/SilvaChris1/PICT0030.jpg
http://i949.photobucket.com/albums/ad340/SilvaChris1/PICT0031.jpg

Step 13: Attach the Fender/Bumper support brackets to the new bumper using 1/8" rivets or bolts (or larger if they'll fit). Be sure to put the brackets in the correct locations on the bumper by aligning the plastic guide pins.
http://i949.photobucket.com/albums/ad340/SilvaChris1/PICT0034.jpg

Step 14: Install the kidney grilles into the new bumper. There are several tabs have to be inserted correctly without breaking them. I struggled with this for a few minutes before finding tiny silver tabs obstructing my progress. It turns out that each grille has two small tabs on the chrome trim go into groves on the bumper. They don't snap in but they guide the grille into place. Below is a close-up view (from behind the bumper).
http://i949.photobucket.com/albums/ad340/SilvaChris1/IMG_0005.jpg

Looking from the front, you can see where the tabs insert near the leading edge of the bumper, in line with the two tab openings in the back. I missed these on the first attempt. The chrome tabs must go in these holes:
http://i949.photobucket.com/albums/ad340/SilvaChris1/PICT0038.jpg

Check all of the tabs, and make sure your grilles are in tight. Biohazard had some worries when he swapped his, so I zip tied mine just to be sure.
http://i949.photobucket.com/albums/ad340/SilvaChris1/IMG_0008.jpg

Step 15: Insert the original fog light and park light housings into the new bumper. The old ones are reused in the new GXP fascia. Listen for them to click into place.

Step 16: Gently place your new bumper near the front of the car and reattach the wire harness you removed earlier. Just push the wire clasps back onto the little ledge the same way they came off.

Step 17: Connect the harness to the fog lights, insert your park light bulbs, *and reconnect at the frame if you took it loose*. Before you do anything else, ensure that the park lights and fog lights work properly. You don't want to take this apart again to fix a simple wire connection.

Step 18: Install the new bumper. Gently lift it up and place the upper portion over the radiator core support, aligning the bolt holes as close as possible. You can safely let it hang by the hood latch. Gently wiggle the bumper until you get everything lined up properly, allowing you to push it into the snaps under the headlights on each side. Reinstall the two 10mm bolts and two push pins at the top along the radiator core support.

Step 19: Reinstall the bolts that hold the bumper to the fender on each side. Be sure the fender and bumper are aligned correctly before you tighten the bolts all the way.

Step 20: Secure the wheel well liners with the push pins (and Phillips screw if you took it out).

Step 21: Install the four 7mm bolts that secure the bottom of the bumper to the car.

Step 22: Install the fog light bezels. They just snap into place, like the trim around the fog lights on the original bumper.

Step 23: Install the insert (lower lip), making sure to align the tabs. Then secure it with four push pins that you didn't know you needed until a few days after you did this swap. EDIT: The fasteners I used are known as "Christmas Tree" Fasteners. Thanks Camss57
http://i949.photobucket.com/albums/ad340/SilvaChris1/IMG_0010.jpg

Step 24: Install the Pontiac emblem. Clean the area with rubbing alcohol first to ensure proper adhesion of the double sided tape.

Step 25: Install the lower grille into the bumper.

Before:
http://i949.photobucket.com/albums/ad340/SilvaChris1/PICT0001.jpg

After:
http://i949.photobucket.com/albums/ad340/SilvaChris1/IMG_0021.jpg

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Rear Diffuser Swap:
Here's a list of tools I got out:
1 Curved Pick
1 Utility Knife
1 Phillips Screwdriver

Step 1: Remove the four push pins that are inserted into the rear diffuser, holding it to the car.

Step 2: Remove the factory honeycomb diffuser. The easiest place to start is at the farthest point to one side. Pull outward.
http://i949.photobucket.com/albums/ad340/SilvaChris1/IMG_0088.jpg
Once one side is loose, begin pulling the diffuser free. While pulling out along the top, you will may have to pull downward on the bottom of the diffuser (where the push pins were inserted) to get the tabs to release.

Step 3: Remove the reflectors from the diffuser. Just unscrew the Phillips head screw that holds each one in place, and push the tab in to release it.
http://i949.photobucket.com/albums/ad340/SilvaChris1/IMG_0092.jpg

Step 4: Install the reflectors in the new diffuser by reversing what you did in Step 3.

Step 5: Test the diffuser to see if there are any obstructions in its fitment. If there are no fitment problems, skip to Step 7.

Step 6: If the diffuser won’t fit because of interference, you will need to trim the excess material around the exhaust tips. Mine should not have fit but I forced it. I decided to trim the material later because the diffuser didn't set completely flat against the bumper. I used a utility knife to trim the excess on both sides:
http://i949.photobucket.com/albums/ad340/SilvaChris1/IMG_0093.jpg

Step 7: Install the new diffuser on the bumper, making sure the tabs are securely inserted. You'll hear them snap into place. Then install the push pins to secure the diffuser to the bumper.

Before:
http://i949.photobucket.com/albums/ad340/SilvaChris1/RearBefore.jpg

After:
http://i949.photobucket.com/albums/ad340/SilvaChris1/IMG_0024.jpg

Did I miss anything there? Sugguestions, corrections, or additions? Thanks, and enjoy.

Chris

great write up!

great write up!

Thank you! It took a good bit of effort, but I hope it can help some others. I really don't have anything better to do right now, being laid off and all.

Very detailed and in depth write up, thanks a bunch. Dont know if I will (or can) afford to do this but if I did then I would most certainly be able to use this to reference part numbers and the such. Thanks again!!

subscribed in case i need to swap out in the future thanks for taking the time

I am just doing the rear diffuser, the stock one is a PIA to clean. Worth the $60. Plus it looks 10x better.

Very detailed and in depth write up, thanks a bunch. Dont know if I will (or can) afford to do this but if I did then I would most certainly be able to use this to reference part numbers and the such. Thanks again!!

subscribed in case i need to swap out in the future thanks for taking the time

Thanks guys. I wanted to contribute something helpful to the board. I know having all this together would have helped me out when I did mine so... yeah.

I am just doing the rear diffuser, the stock one is a PIA to clean. Worth the $60. Plus it looks 10x better.

Definitely. It looks so much better, and I HATED cleaning the stock one. Even if you did manage to get it clean, when the water dried, it would still spot up on that honeycomb. The only way to do it right was to pressure wash it, and then dry it with a leaf blower. Lol.

The rear gxp diffuser is a must. However, I dont know why GT owners switch to the GXP front fascia? I like having a seperation between the two models. Not that I think the GXP fascia looks bad. For the GT I think it looks better to paint the grill surrounds around the foglights like the firehawks have. Anyway, nice writeup and your car looks good.

The rear gxp diffuser is a must. However, I dont know why GT owners switch to the GXP front fascia? I like having a seperation between the two models. Not that I think the GXP fascia looks bad. For the GT I think it looks better to paint the grill surrounds around the foglights like the firehawks have. Anyway, nice writeup and your car looks good.

Why is the GXP diffuser a must?

Well, for one I think it looks better than the GT's and it's much easier to keep clean than the GT diffuser. It doesnt have the honeycombs that hold water and dirt that have to be cleaned all the time.

The front and rear honey combs take a 1/2 hour to clean. I like the rear look also, it looks more beefy. The front also looks more aggressive. Like someone here said before it is not posing until to start to add GXP emblems.

So if you add 19's to a non sport package car, is that posing?
I am add an integrated GPS from Holden, is that posing like a Holden Calais?

To each his own.

Nice DIY write up. I have everything for the GXP front fascia swap except the money for paint. :D

The rear gxp diffuser is a must. However, I dont know why GT owners switch to the GXP front fascia? I like having a seperation between the two models. Not that I think the GXP fascia looks bad. For the GT I think it looks better to paint the grill surrounds around the foglights like the firehawks have. Anyway, nice writeup and your car looks good.

Lol, I heard that. I hate cleaning that GT diffuser. The reason for the front fascia though is just personal preference. I just like the more aggressive look of the GXP, and the classier honeycomb in the lower grille. It's thinner (and will probably break easier), looks better to my eye, and doesn't have any section that is blocked off at the back, so it's easy to keep clean. I like up a gravel road, so any time it rains, there's muddy waterholes, and when it's hot and sunny, it's dusty... so it bothers me. If you like the seperation between the models, I can respect that, but it's not for me. Most people outside of the boards even knows what the car is, much less the difference between the GXPs and GTs. Heck, half of them can't even see the difference in the two bumpers anyways.... I can live with it as long as it makes me happy. I thought about painting the lower grille surrounds on the GT front, but I just didn't like the look of the lines coming together after they're painted. I know I can't paint well enough to get the paint onto every surface inside the honeycomb, and really didn't feel like paying any of the shops to "give try and and see how it turns out". Overall, I'm happy with it. Thanks for the compliment on my car and writeup.
For what it's worth, my buddy calls me a ricer now. I told him, "I guess we can go ride around in your V8 Pontiac then.... ohhhh that's right, your T/A is dead!"

Nice DIY write up. I have everything for the GXP front fascia swap except the money for paint. :D
All in due time man... shop around... you might find some place with skill that'll do it cheap. Thank you.

Why is the GXP diffuser a must?
It looks like GM actually spent more than a minute thinking about how it would look on the car. And the same thing others have said... ease of detailing if nothing else, see below.

Well, for one I think it looks better than the GT's and it's much easier to keep clean than the GT diffuser. It doesnt have the honeycombs that hold water and dirt that have to be cleaned all the time.
The front and rear honey combs take a 1/2 hour to clean. I like the rear look also, it looks more beefy. The front also looks more aggressive.

Very nice write up, you put about 5 threads of information into one, thanks.

Very nice write up, you put about 5 threads of information into one, thanks.

Lol, I tried man. Thanks for the kind words. I just wanna be able to help somebody out with this.

thanks for the write-up. rear diffuser already on, front fascia next.

great step by step pics...

thanks for the write-up. rear diffuser already on, front fascia next.

You're welcome! Good luck man. Just remember, if you can't find those Fog Light Bezels, Crazy Paul can hook you up!

great step by step pics...

Thanks man. I tried to take a bunch of shots when I did the swap. Lots of them just turned out blurry though. Lol.

thank you sooo much silvachris. like i really wanted to get the gxp fascia and now its possible thanks for all the work you put in and the awsome write up, much appreciated!
Kudos!

thank you sooo much silvachris. like i really wanted to get the gxp fascia and now its possible thanks for all the work you put in and the awsome write up, much appreciated!
Kudos!

No problem man, thanks for the kind words. Now... go get those parts!

Heads up on price increases, I just ordered through my local dealer who gave me a 15% discount. This brought the total down lower than if I went through GMPartsdirect.

92213340 Fascia List 167.81
92224778 Insert List 67.64
92213351 Grille List 65.12
92213349/50 Cover List 19.78
92213320 Rear Fascia List 89.54

If you want to do this swap I suggest you get the parts now even if you don't do the swap immediately; the parts prices will only go up and I'm sure once GM figures out the front fascia price is way off it will probably double or more. The GT Fascia List is 441.27!!!

Also big thanks to Chris for the write up, excellent job!!!!:)

Heads up on price increases, I just ordered through my local dealer who gave me a 15% discount. This brought the total down lower than if I went through GMPartsdirect.

92213340 Fascia List 167.81
92224778 Insert List 67.64
92213351 Grille List 65.12
92213349/50 Cover List 19.78
92213320 Rear Fascia List 89.54

If you want to do this swap I suggest you get the parts now even if you don't do the swap immediately; the parts prices will only go up and I'm sure once GM figures out the front fascia price is way off it will probably double or more. The GT Fascia List is 441.27!!!

Also big thanks to Chris for the write up, excellent job!!!!:)

The price increases aren't actually very much at all. List (way more than I paid) when I got them was:
92213340 Fascia List $166.31, difference of $1.50.
92224778 Insert List $66.49, difference of $1.15.
92213351 Grille List $59.20, difference of $5.92.
92213349/50 Cover List $19.78, I couldn't even get them here, ended up paying $32.50 each.
92213320 Rear Fascia List $83.93, difference of $5.64.
But still, prices are going up guys, if you're considering it, just go ahead and do it guys.

And thanks for the comments dude. I put alot of effort into it.

Just got done with my gt to gxp front fascia swap. I did this because mine was cracked badly. Thanks to your instructions it was very easy and too no time at all.

It looks great !!

Thanks

Just finished mine today too, love it!:driving:

Congrats guys... it's too easy to do, and to nice not to love. Glad it worked out well for you both. Did you all have any problems with the Fog Light Bezels?

Well, when I picked up the parts on Monday, one of the two fog lights was back-ordered with the dealer having no idea when it would come in.

Its strange because the other one issued...anywho, got a call two days later that it was ready for pickup!

Picked up my fascia that day from the paint shop, grabbed a beer and got it done in bout 1.5 hours on my driveway.

Thanks!

Man, that ignition orange with the GXP front looks great. It's one of a kind and maybe the only one in existance. I really like the orange and it would've been my second choice if it was still around when I bought my car. I think you need to upgrade to the 19" sport rims or the caddy cts-v wheels. I think that'll put the final touches on it but like you said you're not working so I wouldn't worry about that. I can't believe that you spent all that money and don't have a job. If it were me i'd only spend money on the essentials until I was working again.

Keep that GT looking good! :driving:

Are the two upper grills the same GT and GXP? I would like to get a spare set to try some thing

Man, that ignition orange with the GXP front looks great. It's one of a kind and maybe the only one in existance. I really like the orange and it would've been my second choice if it was still around when I bought my car. I think you need to upgrade to the 19" sport rims or the caddy cts-v wheels. I think that'll put the final touches on it but like you said you're not working so I wouldn't worry about that. I can't believe that you spent all that money and don't have a job. If it were me i'd only spend money on the essentials until I was working again.

Keep that GT looking good! :driving:

Thanks man, that really means alot to me. If I coulda got mine in Stryker Blue, I would have. We looked around everywhere in the area, even drove a couple of them. When it came down to $$ though, I just wasn't willing to pay $640-670 a month for the car. We ended up gettin this GT used for $20k out the door ($385 a month for the car, $85 for full coverage insurance). Good thing too because 3 days before the first payment was due, I got laid off (worked there 13 months). We've been making due with my unemployment and my wife's income, but it gets a little tight sometimes but we tried not to overextend ourselves if something were to happen. If we would have taken the brand new one, we'd be hurting pretty bad. We do have a pretty large chunk in savings that we were going to use as a down payment on a home, but those plans were also put on hold, and that money is now fair game for debts.
With the swap, I stock piled a little money here and there between checks, and got the parts at a nice discount. Overall, I spent 550 bucks. That's not too big of a chunk of money when you do it a little at a time. If I hadn't done it, my wife would have just bought more clothes with the money. She's already filled 2 closets and 2 dressers. Gah! I've got a couple months left of unemployment, and then we'll have to see what I can work out. I qualify for student loan deferrments right now, but figured I would wait until my benefits run out before I did that. Kinda a last resort thing. This will make the car payments doable still yet, and actually open up a little extra money. Know anybody east of the Mississippi looking for a person with an A.S. degree in Drafting and Design, or B.S. in Mech. Engineering Tech.? Lol.
Back to your original comment though, I've been looking at wheels and trying to decide which set to upgrade to whenever things turn around. It's definitely one of my next mods (whenever funding is available again), but I'm looking more toward a set of aftermarket wheels. I love the Breyton GTS wheels

Are the two upper grills the same GT and GXP? I would like to get a spare set to try some thing

The upper kidney grilles (on each side of the Pontiac emblem) are the same for both bumpers. Each grille consists of two parts. The chrome trim, and the inner black honeycomb part. The snap together first, and then snap into the bumper as a single grille assembly. I don't have those part numbers, but I think they're available on this site.

I'm gonna do this. Subscribing. Thanks for taking your time with all this info, its gonna make it extremely easy for me.

Just ordered the rear defuser from a local body shop got it for $68.00 not bad I don't think. Should have it on this week.

I ordered the front lower grille last week cause its on b/o and I wanna get it before spring. I got an answerback last week the grille was shipping from an offshore supplier "OZ".

I would try local places for the parts online wants a lot to ship the bumper.

Wow, thanks for the information in localized place, I was just about to look into this!

I'm gonna do this. Subscribing. Thanks for taking your time with all this info, its gonna make it extremely easy for me.
Wow, thanks for the information in localized place, I was just about to look into this!

Thanks guys... I just wanted to do something productive and help everybody else out. I got my inspiration from Biohazard's swap thread. I didn't have much else going on at the time.

Just ordered the rear defuser from a local body shop got it for $68.00 not bad I don't think. Should have it on this week.
I would try local places for the parts online wants a lot to ship the bumper.

I think the rear diffuser is the best 70 bucks you can spend on the car. If you don't like it for any other reason, it's worth the 70 dollars just cause it stay's cleaner, and when it does get dirty, it takes all of 2 seconds to clean back off. I love it. And yeah... definitely go to a local dealership for the front bumper, they don't charge shipping and the pricing is very reasonable.

I ordered the front lower grille last week cause its on b/o and I wanna get it before spring. I got an answerback last week the grille was shipping from an offshore supplier "OZ".

I didn't know people were still having trouble with the lower grille? I got mine relatively fast. My problem was the fog light bezels.... either way, if you have trouble getting any of the parts... except the bumper, contact Crazy Paul... he can hook you up! HE ROCKS!

Dude like many have said thanks...You inspired alot of people to get moving on this.

I can't believe this....I ordered all the parts on 12/30/09 and they showed up today 1/6/10....everything, all for $255.11 and deliverd from my local dealer to my shop...and it is not a body shop............

Next comes the paint and the filling of the arrowhead holes!!!!!

Dammit, Im still waiting for my grille.

I can't believe this....I ordered all the parts on 12/30/09 and they showed up today 1/6/10....everything, all for $255.11 and deliverd from my local dealer to my shop...and it is not a body shop............

Next comes the paint and the filling of the arrowhead holes!!!!!

That's amazing man. I guess GM finally started getting the Fog Bezels in the country then... Did you have any significant price differences compared to what I listed?

That's amazing man. I guess GM finally started getting the Fog Bezels in the country then... Did you have any significant price differences compared to what I listed?

My prices seemed much less than what you posted....i don't have the invoice in front of me but the total was $255.11.....

Great write up. I've been trying to figure out how to remove the fog light housing & you just solved my dilemma.
After looking at the GXP front end I really like it, but I somehow think that painting the fog light surrounds to color match the body would make it look much better.

I got an answerback that my grille shipped out of 076-Lansing.

*Subscribed for future reference*

Well I am looking for some opinions....

I will be getting my GXP bumper painted Monday.....My kidney grilles are going to be painted satin black. Should I get the lower grill and the fog light surrounds painted the same or should I get the surrounds painted the same color as the car.

Any opinions would be appreciated !!!!!

Is there anyway to order the front fascia already painted from GM or do they all just come the same way and you have to paint it once you get it?

They just come primed.

Someone said the prices were/would go up. They were right! Order now if you want to do it. I just ordered a rear diffuser. It was 108! I saw the parts list and my dealer has hosed me around a few times(scratched and replaced 7 interior panels) so they aren't trying to make a bunch of money off me.

My prices seemed much less than what you posted....i don't have the invoice in front of me but the total was $255.11.....

Prolly a little bit. My guess is that the big chunk of difference is in the Fog Bezels... I had to get mine from Australia and paid 65 bucks for them... You prolly got yours for around 20 total. Either way, aweome!

Great write up. I've been trying to figure out how to remove the fog light housing & you just solved my dilemma.
After looking at the GXP front end I really like it, but I somehow think that painting the fog light surrounds to color match the body would make it look much better.

Lol, you're just too cautious... I just pried my fingers in there and started ripping the trim out. You could paint the GT Bezel, I've seen a few people on here do it, and it looks allright.

Well I am looking for some opinions....

I will be getting my GXP bumper painted Monday.....My kidney grilles are going to be painted satin black. Should I get the lower grill and the fog light surrounds painted the same or should I get the surrounds painted the same color as the car.

Any opinions would be appreciated !!!!!

I think it would look better painted a nice gloss finish, but I'd have a hard time dealing with the paint chipping out from road debris and stuff. I'd imagine it wouldn't hold up well.

Is there anyway to order the front fascia already painted from GM or do they all just come the same way and you have to paint it once you get it?

Negative, they come primed or gel coated or something... Prep is really minimal though, and I got mine painted for $215 at a dealership. I used some 2000 grit sandpaper on it just to make sure it was nice and smooth before I dropped it off.



Everybody else, I'm glad I helped out some.

Well, I am dropping mine off Monday to get painted...I am having them fill in the holes for the front arrowhead emblem, I don't think I want it back on the car as I have all the Holden Emblems on the trunk lid....

Has anyone else done that ???

Subscribed. I'm looking forward to doing the GXP rear diffuser swap as soon as I can get my hands on one. This how-to write up is great. Shout out to the OP. Thanks!

Well, I am dropping mine off Monday to get painted...I am having them fill in the holes for the front arrowhead emblem, I don't think I want it back on the car as I have all the Holden Emblems on the trunk lid....

Has anyone else done that ???

Good choice. Thats what I want to do :wink2:

Subscribed. I'm looking forward to doing the GXP rear diffuser swap as soon as I can get my hands on one. This how-to write up is great. Shout out to the OP. Thanks!

I've seen a couple diffusers on ebay here lately for around 75 bucks.... and thanks for the kind words.

I ordered the GXP diffuser today, should see it in a few days.

does anyone know the part # for the push pins the hold on the lower lip to the GXP Bumper?? I would bet they are the same pins that hold the rear diffuser in place.....

does anyone know the part # for the push pins the hold on the lower lip to the GXP Bumper?? I would bet they are the same pins that hold the rear diffuser in place.....

+1 on that, and just got a quote down here in Houston to do this and I came up with $322.05 for the parts. :whine:

well, if I can't find the right pins, i may borrow one from the back for the time being....I plan on doing my install either tomorrow or Thursday....body shop is filling in the holes where the arrowhead goes and painting right now !!!!

OH and BTW can you re-use the front arrowhead off the other bumper?

OH and BTW can you re-use the front arrowhead off the other bumper?

You can, but I am choosing not to........

I can't decide if I want my grilles chrome or black....my car is black...tough decision...

You can, but I am choosing not to........

I can't decide if I want my grilles chrome or black....my car is black...tough decision...

BLACK!! be different everyone elses are chrome!

the ones on my car are painted black, and the paint is chipping off so i have two new ones that came in today......i think i will put the new ones on as i don't want to make the same mistake twice and sand the old ones down and have the body shop paint them.....they aren't the cheapest things in the world...

does anyone know the part # for the push pins the hold on the lower lip to the GXP Bumper?? I would bet they are the same pins that hold the rear diffuser in place.....
+1 on that, and just got a quote down here in Houston to do this and I came up with $322.05 for the parts. :whine:
well, if I can't find the right pins, i may borrow one from the back for the time being....I plan on doing my install either tomorrow or Thursday....body shop is filling in the holes where the arrowhead goes and painting right now !!!!

The push pins from the back (and the front) are all larger than the ones that hold the lower lip in place. You really need something around 1/8" diameter to fit. I still haven't had any luck finding out what to tell you to get. Also, if you need any more help with the install, let me know and I'll do what I can to help. The only thing that really threw me off when I did it was figuring out the clips under the headlights. Everything else was fairly self explainatory. Just jump in there and start taking out bolts and clips. Just remember, the wheel well liners don't HAVE to come all the way out, but they are a headache to keep out of the way.

OH and BTW can you re-use the front arrowhead off the other bumper?

Yeah, you can re-use yours if you can remove it without breaking it. Maybe it will come off easy if you have a heat gun... but I ended up getting a direct fit off of somebody elses bumper in an auction for 5 bucks. Dude didn't break it when he removed his.

GXP bumper with Pontiac arrowhead removed :)

http://i49.photobucket.com/albums/f264/KNiGHTMaRe89/Uploads%20via%20Pixelpipe/IMG_0696.jpg
(http://s49.photobucket.com/albums/f264/KNiGHTMaRe89/Uploads%20via%20Pixelpipe/?action=view&current=IMG_0696.jpg)

GXP bumper with Pontiac arrowhead removed :)

http://i49.photobucket.com/albums/f264/KNiGHTMaRe89/Uploads%20via%20Pixelpipe/IMG_0696.jpg
(http://s49.photobucket.com/albums/f264/KNiGHTMaRe89/Uploads%20via%20Pixelpipe/?action=view&current=IMG_0696.jpg)

Looks Great !!! I am doing the same thing and filling in the holes as well...

What did you use for the push pins on the front lower lip ???

^^ that looks great !!!

Looks Great !!! I am doing the same thing and filling in the holes as well...

What did you use for the push pins on the front lower lip ???

Thanks! I actually didn't do the install, I had my buddy at the dealer throw it on for me. I was going to do it but I did not have a rivet gun and I didn't feel like buying one just for this project.

Typically for the push pins I usually go with a flat-head screwdriver.

^^ that looks great !!!

Thanks bud!

Got the diffuser today, might install it this amfternoon with the axle backs.

GXP bumper with Pontiac arrowhead removed :)

http://i49.photobucket.com/albums/f264/KNiGHTMaRe89/Uploads%20via%20Pixelpipe/IMG_0696.jpg
(http://s49.photobucket.com/albums/f264/KNiGHTMaRe89/Uploads%20via%20Pixelpipe/?action=view&current=IMG_0696.jpg)

Looks very nice!

here is a very bad cell phone pic, but thanks for the instructions...less than 45 minutes to install!!!!!!!!!

http://i556.photobucket.com/albums/ss1/dl090465/IMG00035-20100113-1332.jpg

here is a very bad cell phone pic, but thanks for the instructions...less than 45 minutes to install!!!!!!!!!

http://i556.photobucket.com/albums/ss1/dl090465/IMG00035-20100113-1332.jpg

Dude that looks awesome!!!

I just gotta get my coil-overs on and then i'm doing this ASAP!!

Dude that looks awesome!!!

I just gotta get my coil-overs on and then i'm doing this ASAP!!


Thanks.....I am just waiting to get pulled over for the first time for no front plate....I just can't do it...yet....It looks too clean with no plate and no arrowhead emblem....The body shop did such an awesome job filling the holes for the front emblem...no trace of the holes at all....

Ive had 5 vehicles here in Texas with no license plate in the front, and its manditory here. lol I guess I just have good luck?

I too have a GXP front fascia w/ the front license plate and Pontiac emblem shaved. I had the bodyshop who painted it perform the installation because I didn't want to scratch or damage the fascia during transport to my house.

My bodyshop opted to secure the lower insert using T-shaped push pins, not the same type of retainer used to secure the rear diffuser or wheel liners (Those are too large for this application). The factory uses small screws (1/4" head or smaller) to secure the insert to the front fascia.

Ive had 5 vehicles here in Texas with no license plate in the front, and its manditory here. lol I guess I just have good luck?

I live in th COMMUNIST State of Virginia, the State Police are trained revenue generators......I am leaving it off until the first time I get pulled. I am leaving the old plate attached the the bracket on the floor in the back seat so if I do get pulled, I am gonna tell them the car was wrecked, and I am waiting on the new plate brakcet....worth a try....

I too have a GXP front fascia w/ the front license plate and Pontiac emblem shaved. I had the bodyshop who painted it perform the installation because I didn't want to scratch or damage the fascia during transport to my house.

My bodyshop opted to secure the lower insert using T-shaped push pins, not the same type of retainer used to secure the rear diffuser or wheel liners (Those are too large for this application). The factory uses small screws (1/4" head or smaller) to secure the insert to the front fascia.

I found some very small push pins that worked.....

wont the dealership know what pins are needed for the install?

I too have a GXP front fascia w/ the front license plate and Pontiac emblem shaved. I had the bodyshop who painted it perform the installation because I didn't want to scratch or damage the fascia during transport to my house.

My bodyshop opted to secure the lower insert using T-shaped push pins, not the same type of retainer used to secure the rear diffuser or wheel liners (Those are too large for this application). The factory uses small screws (1/4" head or smaller) to secure the insert to the front fascia.

That makes sense...I will bet there are probably speed clips on the OE bumper when assembled by GM and small 7mm screws hold the front lip on....

I'm sorry but how much did the conversion cost you before paint? Thanks.

I'm sorry but how much did the conversion cost you before paint? Thanks.

I just got a quote for $322.00 for all the parts but I believe someone else paid like 250-280 or something like that

I'm sorry but how much did the conversion cost you before paint? Thanks.


$255.21 is what I paid for everything......

I may have to consider this. You ordered the parts straight from the dealer I presume?

I may have to consider this. You ordered the parts straight from the dealer I presume?

Yes, I actually got them from a Chevy Dealer.....they give me their wholesale price on whatever I need.....

looks great in black...... i got to place my order soon for the gxp bumper i got qouted $295 for the parts

GXP bumper with Pontiac arrowhead removed :)

http://i49.photobucket.com/albums/f264/KNiGHTMaRe89/Uploads%20via%20Pixelpipe/IMG_0696.jpg
(http://s49.photobucket.com/albums/f264/KNiGHTMaRe89/Uploads%20via%20Pixelpipe/?action=view&current=IMG_0696.jpg)

Dude, it looks great. Your body shop did a good job.

here is a very bad cell phone pic, but thanks for the instructions...less than 45 minutes to install!!!!!!!!!

http://i556.photobucket.com/albums/ss1/dl090465/IMG00035-20100113-1332.jpg

Again, another great looking swap. You're welcome, and I'm glad you got it done so quick.

I too have a GXP front fascia w/ the front license plate and Pontiac emblem shaved. I had the bodyshop who painted it perform the installation because I didn't want to scratch or damage the fascia during transport to my house.

My bodyshop opted to secure the lower insert using T-shaped push pins, not the same type of retainer used to secure the rear diffuser or wheel liners (Those are too large for this application). The factory uses small screws (1/4" head or smaller) to secure the insert to the front fascia.

I was scared to death of scratching up mine after the paint work, but I stuffed it back in the box it shipped in, and wrapped it up in a furniture shipping blanket.
I'm pretty sure I used the same type of clips for mine, because the normal push pins just will NOT fit.

I'm sorry but how much did the conversion cost you before paint? Thanks.

I just got a quote for $322.00 for all the parts but I believe someone else paid like 250-280 or something like that

My price ended up being like 320 before the paint (which was 215). But yeah... Mr. Adams here got a steal on his parts.

These cars look a 1,000,000 times better with the pontiac emblem on the nose.

These cars look a 1,000,000 times better with the pontiac emblem on the nose.

I don't think so, just my 2 cents....

i got this outta my car BC/CC WA679F thats my paint code right?

and the bumper is alrdy primed correct?

i got this outta my car BC/CC WA679F thats my paint code right?

yes

and the bumper is alrdy primed correct?

Factory plastic parts are never primed

I don't think so, just my 2 cents....

Dude, this is the internet. You can't disagree with me!

For those of you who have done the GT to GXP front bumper swap, can you help us with a question for the other "lip" people are considering.....

Is the lower edge/face of the GXP front bumper the same size and shape as the lower edge of the GT front bumper??? In other words, would a front spoiler made to mount on the lower part of the GT bumper also mount to the lower edge of the GXP bumper??

I know the fog area is different and the GXP has that extra little gap-filler plastic piece but none of that affects the lower edge.

Thank you big time for your help!

$550 huh? Not bad, may have to consider this in the future, although if anything needs to be fixed on this car it's the rear imho.

I did mine also, here is a link http://www.g8board.com/forums/showthread.php?t=30799

Thanks for posting all this.
Big help to me

this seriously needs to be in the DIY Section!

Thanks for posting all this.
Big help to me

Awesome! I'm glad it helped you out

I did mine also, here is a link http://www.g8board.com/forums/showthread.php?t=30799

Lookin good buddy!

this seriously needs to be in the DIY Section!

Sweet, how do I go about getting it submitted into the DIY section? (I thought I asked for that once before?)

This thread rocks, thanks

Sweet, how do I go about getting it submitted into the DIY section? (I thought I asked for that once before?)
I don't recall getting a request, but this is a great write-up SilvaChris1, thanks for your efforts. Moving to DIY...

I just did this for $260 all in! Can you believe that I found a GXP front end at a dealership That they had mis ordered for a customer AND had painted it Red Hot. GM would not take it back so it sat in their shop for 6 months until I came along and bought it. They were happy to get rid of it for $90 PAINTED!

I just did this for $260 all in! Can you believe that I found a GXP front end at a dealership That they had mis ordered for a customer AND had painted it Red Hot. GM would not take it back so it sat in their shop for 6 months until I came along and bought it. They were happy to get rid of it for $90 PAINTED!

luck bastard, thats a helluva deal

Definitely going to have to do the rear when I get some extra cash.....front looks great too but the rear has to be done first....stock GT one is horrible.

This thread rocks, thanks
:driving:Welcome.

I don't recall getting a request, but this is a great write-up SilvaChris1, thanks for your efforts. Moving to DIY...
Awesome! Thanks, this thread has really blown up, I musta done something right!

I just did this for $260 all in! Can you believe that I found a GXP front end at a dealership That they had mis ordered for a customer AND had painted it Red Hot. GM would not take it back so it sat in their shop for 6 months until I came along and bought it. They were happy to get rid of it for $90 PAINTED!
Wow dude, you lucked out. If I was that owner, I woulda told them to install it anyway! Either way, that's a wicked deal.

I just love the GXP front.

Anyone had any luck in Michigan getting these parts at decent/discounted prices? If so please pass along some contact information. I need to get rid of the license plate front fascia and install a clean front. The G8 fascia is double the price of the GXP. There is of course the cost of the grille, insert and fog bezels but worth the extra $$... looking for a friendly parts counter guy... thx...

Where you at in Michigan? I could hook you up, but you have to pick up.

Pretty close to you... Commerce Twp... I can pick up...

Where you at in Michigan? I could hook you up, but you have to pick up.

You still out there willing to help? Thx...:driving:

Im here, just PM me if interested.

Thanks for taking the time. Nice write up. great for reference.

I am still working this myself, I am not a fan of driving around with the holes from my license plate still .. if only for that whole money issue :)

Question for all that have ordered the OEM GXP front end. Did yours come with the little marker lights that sit on the corner under the headlight? My body shop (Dealer) ordered it and it did not come with them. Anyone have a part #? I did not see it on the front page.

The marker lights just swap over from the base facia.

The marker lights just swap over from the base facia.

Well I hope they did not trash the old bumper yet, my rental coverage expires in two days (It has been 4 weeks today):censored:

The marker lights just swap over from the base facia.

Agreed; swap em over. If you need a part number check: Monaro@JHP (http://www.g8board.com/forums/member.php?u=29) on this board

Agreed; swap em over. If you need a part number check: Monaro@JHP (http://www.g8board.com/forums/member.php?u=29) on this board

LOL, not on this bumper. Looks very similar with the exception of the gaping triple hole where the marker light goes, diffrent fog light area and the fact that it is about 6 inches too narrow. On the plus side they found a GXP bumper that they are getting overnighted. Hopefully they will have it painted and mounted by Friday. My rental coverage runs out today.

Thank you for the speedy response though.

Jason

Maybe im stupid, or maybe im blind but i cant see a difference between the gxp and the gt front facia besides the black piece on the bottom of bumper

GXP: http://www.seriouswheels.com/pics-2009/nopq/2009-Pontiac-G8-GXP-Front-Angle-1920x1440.jpg

GT: http://z.about.com/d/cars/1/0/J/G/1/ag_08g8gt_frtrt.jpg

see the grille area? the GT has two grilles, one on each side, while the GXP only has one right in the middle.

GXP: http://www.seriouswheels.com/pics-2009/nopq/2009-Pontiac-G8-GXP-Front-Angle-1920x1440.jpg

GT: http://z.about.com/d/cars/1/0/J/G/1/ag_08g8gt_frtrt.jpg

see the grille area? the GT has two grilles, one on each side, while the GXP only has one right in the middle.

yeah i see it now it took me 8 months to see the omg im getting a gxp front facia differenece. it looks good though but i dont think ill rush to buy one unless mine is damaged.

fog lamp surrounds are unique to the GXP and there is an insert below the fascia unique as well to the GXP. I have all those parts in my garage; just need paint on the fascia...

The GXP fascia is more aggressive looking also.

Excellent write-up, thanks! Made my GXP diffuser install go quick and smooth.

Just ordered all my parts for 427 shipped. Can't wait until next summer!

Just ordered all my parts for 427 shipped. Can't wait until next summer!
Did you get GM part# 92224778 (bottom lip for bumper). if so where did u find it. Thnx

Did you get GM part# 92224778 (bottom lip for bumper). if so where did u find it. Thnx
No its on back-order I'm so mad about it. If you find one or I do ill let you know where.

No its on back-order I'm so mad about it. If you find one or I do ill let you know where.

I called my local "Pontiac" dealer and they said "the back order fill date is in Dec", and to call after the 9th for another update.

That is the last piece I need to do my swap, tho I may just "rock-it" without that piece until it gets in.......................it is better then the hole that is in my current bumper. :(

Great write up OP! Def on my mod list.. I know there are prob others but liked seeing it on IOM.. Obviously it was never an option for GXP trim. Also do you have stock mufflers? Wondering if my standard tip SOLO axlebacks will look to small with the GXP diffuser...
Thanks again for all your hard work and good luck in the JOB market:)

Great write up. Thank you for taking the time to do it properly. Car looks great.

No its on back-order I'm so mad about it. If you find one or I do ill let you know where.


Well there isnt any here in Australia either ive checked availabilty of all parts required last week. Im planning on doing the conversion end of january and its the only part Holden doesnt currently have stock of.

Excellent write-up, thanks! Made my GXP diffuser install go quick and smooth.

Thanks! Glad it went easy for ya.

Just ordered all my parts for 427 shipped. Can't wait until next summer!

You mean you just stole all your parts! The only thing left for you is paint. Remember to shop around for the best place!

Great write up OP! Def on my mod list.. I know there are prob others but liked seeing it on IOM.. Obviously it was never an option for GXP trim. Also do you have stock mufflers? Wondering if my standard tip SOLO axlebacks will look to small with the GXP diffuser...
Thanks again for all your hard work and good luck in the JOB market:)

Thanks for the kind words. It definitely makes my car a bit more "one of a kind", but it's not like I'm seeing a bunch of IOM G8s out there anyway, lol. Yessir, I have the stock GT tips (whole car is stock except for this write up, and stuffing a garmin gps into the cubby hole). The look fine to me. I can post up a better shot of the rear if you need one.

Great write up. Thank you for taking the time to do it properly. Car looks great.

Thanks! I wanted to do it right, and make the "go to" resource for the swap that way people wouldn't have to go searching around a bunch of different threads for all the info. Thanks for the compliments on the car! Ya know... maybe G8Board could fund a set of wheels for me since I put in all this effort... just sayin!

OK guys...my dealer showed that the grill insert shows nothing in stock and only one in the entire country! So, he said a SPAC case would mean he would need my VIN...however, he also said that if the VIN doesn't match the part number for that particular Vin number...then the case gets returned and cancelled...so what if that happens? Has anyone come across this kind of situation?

ERROR
sorry guys, I didn't read all they way through this thing. I was assuming the INSERT my dealer had put on my invoice ment the grill insert for the bottom of the bumper, but if it is the lower lip for the bumper, then I may just run it anyway, Not like its going to rust or anything like that.

HAHA! Just got everything except the rear diffuser for $333.99. Paint job will be $200, so $533.99 for everthing.......WOW. Can't wait to get this stuff installed!

HAHA! Just got everything except the rear diffuser for $333.99. Paint job will be $200, so $533.99 for everthing.......WOW. Can't wait to get this stuff installed!

Nice!

great write up im about to do mine so this is a big help thx for the hard work

great write up im about to do mine so this is a big help thx for the hard work

:driving:Welcome!

HAHA! Just got everything except the rear diffuser for $333.99. Paint job will be $200, so $533.99 for everthing.......WOW. Can't wait to get this stuff installed! You should get the fog inserts painted same color, its looks great on a GT that I saw.

Dang insert is still backed up, now its back to the 4th week of December. Soooo, is there an alternative for the front insert? I don't want to drive it without putting it on, but would it hurt?

Maverick Man has a CF front grill. I've been thinking about it. He also has the upper grill surrounds in CF.

http://maverickmancarbon.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/07/img9987f512send1-150x150.jpg (http://maverickmancarbon.com/archives/244/img9987f512send-2)http://maverickmancarbon.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/IMG_9622rssend-150x150.jpg (http://maverickmancarbon.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/IMG_9622rssend.jpg)

Dang insert is still backed up, now its back to the 4th week of December. Soooo, is there an alternative for the front insert? I don't want to drive it without putting it on, but would it hurt?

It shouldn't hurt anything but your pride. I drove around without it for q dew days cause I couldn't find any push in clips. Then I put it in anyway and drove around 2 weeks without the pins to hold it on.

3.) Front fascia grille: GM part# 92213351: List $59.20, Net $38.42 – Ordered on6/30/09, Received on 7/09/2009.


this is the lower grille insert right?

Maverick Man has a CF front grill. I've been thinking about it. He also has the upper grill surrounds in CF.

http://maverickmancarbon.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/07/img9987f512send1-150x150.jpg (http://maverickmancarbon.com/archives/244/img9987f512send-2)http://maverickmancarbon.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/IMG_9622rssend-150x150.jpg (http://maverickmancarbon.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/IMG_9622rssend.jpg)

$340 #?$@?#$@ JAKFJDKLSDF!!! damn

Update on the grill insert. I still don't have it. Dealer contacted me recently and said it would be the second week in FEB now. You can't really tell its not there if you arent' looking for it. Plus they painted everything around the lips down there so it will be fine if I don't hit any curbs. Dealer said that GM is contacted new manufacturers for this part. So, nothing yet, but its no biggie.

I hope that means for everyone and not just select dealers lol.

where is everyone getting the fog light bezels from?

i went to my dealer cuz i busted my front bumper and gave them the numbers for everything for the gxp, all they could find me was the cover, and the lower grille.

I'm in Canada by the way

That is strange. I don't know if it would matter or not, but make sure he isn't looking for the parts for that particular VIN, or it won't bring up anything for the gxp. I had no problem getting my parts, excluding the lower front facia...which is backed to March now.

I went into my dealer with the actual numbers and they didn't work.

I'm wondering if it's because the gxp wasn't offered here

i ordered both the fog light bezel from www.gmpartsdirect.com 2 weeks ago and they arived yesterday , they fit in the bumper just right and i took the bumper to get painted today.

i ordered both the fog light bezel from www.gmpartsdirect.com 2 weeks ago and they arived yesterday , they fit in the bumper just right and i took the bumper to get painted today.

they don't deliver to Canada cuz theres no gm's here that need parts apperantly.

What numbers did you get on your bezels? i came up with 92213342/43?

they don't deliver to Canada cuz theres no gm's here that need parts apperantly.

What numbers did you get on your bezels? i came up with 92213342/43?

There you go those numbers are wrong i think they changed them but the idiots could of looked in the computer and told you the correct numbers gheez.
92213350
92214449
Or u can have someone order it and send it to canada.

thanks man, i called and got prices.

now to find a shop to do the work

After:
http://i949.photobucket.com/albums/ad340/SilvaChris1/IMG_0021.jpg


Yummy

Is there anyone out there who has done this with a white hot that doesn't have any use for their old GT bumper cover? Ideally without the front license plate. Just thought I'd throw that out there, they all look nice though

Very useful information, thanks for taking the time to create this resource

+1..thanks for your info silva..just got my rear diffusser this week and will do install as soon as the mi. weather breaks.

Yay I got my part! Well now parts! I put so many orders in all of a sudden I have two 92224778's !

YUP! Got my lower front facia insert last Thursday. I'm so used to it not being on I don't really notice a difference ha. I couldn't find the correct fasteners though! The parts guy had a bunch of different sizes but nothing worked right. So I just got the smallest push-in fasteners he had and drilled the holes out bigger on the bumper. All done now. I also notice the new bumper has a bunch of chips and knicks in it already....go figure.

Glad for those who got it, still waiting on mine...:0(

I think there is a thread on the pushpins you need.


Sent from my iPhone using Autoguide

where is everyone getting the fog light bezels from?

i went to my dealer cuz i busted my front bumper and gave them the numbers for everything for the gxp, all they could find me was the cover, and the lower grille.

I'm in Canada by the way

I got mine from Crazy Paul. He's the man for parts if you're still having trouble finding them.

they don't deliver to Canada cuz theres no gm's here that need parts apperantly.

What numbers did you get on your bezels? i came up with 92213342/43?

The numbers are 49/50. Darkmanx has them right.

There you go those numbers are wrong i think they changed them but the idiots could of looked in the computer and told you the correct numbers gheez.
92213350
92214449
Or u can have someone order it and send it to canada.

I've changed the information in my original post. I removed the old numbers completely to avoid future confusion.

thanks man, i called and got prices.

now to find a shop to do the work

What was the price they quoted you?

Yummy

Thanks, I can't wait to put a set of wheels on this thing.

Very useful information, thanks for taking the time to create this resource

+1..thanks for your info silva..just got my rear diffusser this week and will do install as soon as the mi. weather breaks.

You're welcome guys. Glad it's been so helpful around here.

I couldn't find the correct fasteners though! The parts guy had a bunch of different sizes but nothing worked right. So I just got the smallest push-in fasteners he had and drilled the holes out bigger on the bumper. All done now. I also notice the new bumper has a bunch of chips and knicks in it already....go figure.

Glad you got it sorted out, it took me a while to find something that actually fit... Now, about your paint... did your dealer use the new "water-based" paint, or the old "illegal" paint? Seems like every single vehicle I've seen with the newer water based stuff has chips all over it.

I have an extra if anyone needs one.

Got mine from Crazy Paul this morning! Probably be available over the counter at every GM dealer any day now.

I have an extra if anyone needs one.

Not sure what you're referring to Nelstoys, you have an extra what?

Don't mean to be rude but who is Crazy Paul?? :)

PM sent

Placed order (rear diffuser) with gmpartsdirect on Sunday and received confirmation the order should be delivered on Friday. Based on others posts I was expecting at least a month wait but I'm not complaining! Looking forward to getting it put on this weekend just in time for Spring and all the car washes!

How much for the facia and paint?

I got pretty annoyed/frustrated earlier today. I tried swapping the rear diffuser out on the G8 but I couldn't get those tabs (upper part of diffuser) off on the stock diffuser. I started at one corner, got that one, but none of the others would even budge. Would using a flat-head screwdriver help? I've been waiting a couple weeks for it to get nice out so I could do the swap but now I'm thinking it's not gonna happen! Help!! :)

Edit: Would removing the bumper help at all?

i have the bottom piece for the gxp front end

I got pretty annoyed/frustrated earlier today. I tried swapping the rear diffuser out on the G8 but I couldn't get those tabs (upper part of diffuser) off on the stock diffuser. I started at one corner, got that one, but none of the others would even budge. Would using a flat-head screwdriver help? I've been waiting a couple weeks for it to get nice out so I could do the swap but now I'm thinking it's not gonna happen! Help!! :)

Edit: Would removing the bumper help at all?

Its been a while since I did mine, and I don't recall what tabs you are talking about. Are they metal clips that sqeeze onto the plastic kinda???? LOL thats the only way I know to describe them. Only issue I had with my diffuser was cutting the plastic on the bumper itself.

All you have to do is get the first (end) one off and pull the difuser away from the bumper. They will release one at a time without any breaking. I think I used a small putty knife (from under the vehicle) to get the first one off.

Its been a while since I did mine, and I don't recall what tabs you are talking about. Are they metal clips that sqeeze onto the plastic kinda???? LOL thats the only way I know to describe them. Only issue I had with my diffuser was cutting the plastic on the bumper itself.

They are the plastic clips/tabs that run along the top of the diffuser.

All you have to do is get the first (end) one off and pull the difuser away from the bumper. They will release one at a time without any breaking. I think I used a small putty knife (from under the vehicle) to get the first one off.

I might try using a small putty knife to get the rest off. I got the first one (end) off fairly easily and was pulling straight out but they wouldn't budge. Maybe I'm just weak! lol I'll try again here soon! Thanks for the help aabry & ak01q!

Old diffuser off, new diffuser on. I had to use a butter knife on each one of the tabs b/c between the dirt and gravel each one seemed to be attached pretty well. Thanks again for the how-to SilvaChris1 and the help from others.

Old diffuser off, new diffuser on. I had to use a butter knife on each one of the tabs b/c between the dirt and gravel each one seemed to be attached pretty well. Thanks again for the how-to SilvaChris1 and the help from others.

You're welcome. I glad you got it loose and all. I was just going to tell you to pull like crazy. Try to break it if you have to. You wont hurt the bumper, and you're replacing the diffuser anyway. I just gave mine a very agressive jerk. Either way, you're done now anyhow.

Thanks again! I love the look of it btw!

Great write up! Been thinking about doing this...

Thankya sir. Do it already!

I have a GXP front waiting to be painted/installed. Since I plan on using my car on the race track, I'd prefer not to destroy a brand-new GXP front if/when I hit something.

Would it be possible to remove the front as an assembly and swap back/forth from the GXP to the GT? What extra parts would be required?

Looking at Steps 12/13 I think I'd need extra "Fender/Bumper support brackets". It would probably be easiest to get an extra set of fog light housings as well. I already have an extra set of kidney grilles, side marker lights, and a Pontiac emblem. Is there anything else I would need?

-Todd...

I have a GXP front waiting to be painted/installed. Since I plan on using my car on the race track, I'd prefer not to destroy a brand-new GXP front if/when I hit something.

Would it be possible to remove the front as an assembly and swap back/forth from the GXP to the GT? What extra parts would be required?

Looking at Steps 12/13 I think I'd need extra "Fender/Bumper support brackets". It would probably be easiest to get an extra set of fog light housings as well. I already have an extra set of kidney grilles, side marker lights, and a Pontiac emblem. Is there anything else I would need?

-Todd...

Yeah... everything that doesn't stay directly attached to the car, you'll need if you want a quick swap. 2 Kidney Grilles w/ Chrome Trim (if I remember right, the chrome is a seperate part from the grille), 2 Fog Light Housing Assemblies, 1 Pontiac Arrowhead Emblem, 2 Fender/Bumper Support Bracket (things I had to drill the rivets out of to swap over), and if you want it to be even quicker... the wire harness that runs along backside of the bumper cover connecting turn signals and fog lights (that way you can just disconnect from the body then plug the other bumper cover right back in, otherwise you'll have to pull the harness loose every time you swap).

if you want it to be even quicker... the wire harness that runs along backside of the bumper cover connecting turn signals and fog lights (that way you can just disconnect from the body then plug the other bumper cover right back in, otherwise you'll have to pull the harness loose every time you swap).
Good point... Sounds like that is the way to go. Thanks!

-Todd...

Just confirming, that for the rear diffuser switch, all I need is the diffuser....? The pins are reusable and the reflectors can be switched out.

I just had my car shipped from AZ to NC and they scuffed up the one on there. I just washed the car for the first time and noticed how hard it is to clean the honeycomb......

Sent from my ADR6300 using AutoGuide App

Just confirming, that for the rear diffuser switch, all I need is the diffuser....? The pins are reusable and the reflectors can be switched out.

Yes. Certain 2008's need to do a little bumper trimming... You can also buy the pins at most auto stores anyway.

Anyone having issues with paint chipping ? I have to get my bumper repainted due to GM's instructions on his to paint these bumpers without primer. My body man told me that the original cars and parts when the car is built are primed...but parts bought after the fact...(like these)...are not primed and the guy told me that GM told him that it doesn't need primer and that the paint instructions don't say to prime it....so maybe its a crappy paint job...or the body man knows what he is talking about...I guess we will find out.

Mine looks like crap after one winter here in Michigan. At some point I will have to have it painted again. Once I do I'll be calling my 3M invisible bra guy and having it wrapped. Was real disappointed at how much chipping and peeling I saw after one winter and I don't commute with the car!

Mine looks like crap after one winter here in Michigan. At some point I will have to have it painted again. Once I do I'll be calling my 3M invisible bra guy and having it wrapped. Was real disappointed at how much chipping and peeling I saw after one winter and I don't commute with the car!

Sorry to hear that Dave, My fascia is still in the box while I gather the other parts and consider a s/c if I am going to change the fascia out.

Such is life here in Michigan. I should have learned when I bought my GXP and got a chip in the front fascia on the way HOME from the dealer! Repaint can wait; the SS is getting a cam from VMS.... The SS has the 3M invisibra. I have Kooks 1-7/8's in the basement with off road cat delete. Going in next week.... Can't wait. I did the RotoFab and VMS tune on the G8 and it added some nice jump to the car...

I don't know if it's a primer issue or not. I kinda doubt it. I think it's more likely the newer water based paints instead of the "bad for the environment" stuff that actually has some durability. Everything I've seen with the new paints have chipped 10x worse than normal. My hood is showing some chips whereas my bumper is not...? I made sure the dealer that painted it hadn't switched over yet when I got it done.

Yes. Certain 2008's need to do a little bumper trimming... You can also buy the pins at most auto stores anyway.

Thanks, Rear Diffuser ordered today.
Will be here tomorrow, although I wont be able to get it on till Tuesday... Hoping the wife won't notice.

tgordy0 - how much for the diffuser?

It was like $66 bucks...$71.08 out the door with tax. No shipping.

Sent from my ADR6300 using AutoGuide App

Thanks guys. Got my new GXP diffuser installed this week. Looks real good. Even better since they scuffed my old stock one up in shipping the car from AZ to NC.

Easy install. Thanks for the write up, made my life easy.

Sent from my ADR6300 using AutoGuide App

Great price, easy install, what else could you ask for?
A pic of the diffuser installed.

Will do that asap. But off to work now. Boohoo.... I'd rather be driving the G8 than the Charger today.


Sent from my ADR6300 using AutoGuide App

very informative. thanks for taking the time to write this up