Installing a HIC Premium Bonnet Protector not only safeguards your vehicle’s paint from stone chips, bugs, and debris - but also adds a sleek, high-quality upgrade to your vehicle’s front end. Made from tough, UV-resistant chrome acrylic with a distortion-free smooth finish, it’s engineered for both performance and looks.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the full installation process, using the included screw/clip-on hardware - no drilling required.
Expert Insight:
A quality bonnet protector can help prolong the life of your bonnet’s paint and dramatically reduce the impact of flying road debris - especially on outback drives or highway trips.
Tools & Materials You'll Need
✅ HIC Premium Bonnet Protector
✅ Supplied Fitting Kit – includes screws, bolts, clips
✅ Installation Instructions – included in your kit
✅ Clean Microfiber Cloth
✅ Mild Soap Solution or Isopropyl Alcohol
✅ Masking Tape (optional, for alignment)
Step 1: Prepare the Bonnet for Installation
The key to a perfect fit is a clean, dry, and dust-free bonnet surface.
✔ Wash and Dry Thoroughly:
Using mild soap or isopropyl alcohol, clean the front edge of your bonnet to remove any dirt, wax, or contaminants. Pay attention to the underside lip as well - this is where some clips may be attached.
✔ Dry Completely:
Moisture can interfere with both adhesive grip and clip alignment, so make sure the bonnet is fully dry before proceeding.
✔ Optional – Use Masking Tape for Positioning:
Place a few strips of masking tape on your bonnet to use as alignment markers for easier placement later.
Step 2: Test Fit the Bonnet Protector
Dry-fitting helps identify the exact clip points before you secure anything permanently.
✔ Align the Bonnet Protector:
Carefully rest the protector over the bonnet’s leading edge. Confirm the contours line up properly from end to end.
✔ Hold with Light Pressure:
Have someone help you keep it in place while you inspect each clip area underneath.
✔ Mark Lightly if Needed:
If necessary, make pencil or tape marks to help guide the final fitment.
🔹 Common Mistake:
Skipping a test fit can lead to misalignment, causing stress on the acrylic and improper edge sealing.
Step 3: Install the Included Clips
The installation kit includes all necessary clips - no drilling or permanent mods required.
✔ Insert Clip Tabs:
Starting from the center outward, place the provided clip-on tabs along the bonnet’s edge as instructed. These hold the mounting holes aligned.
✔ Secure with Supplied Screws or Bolts:
Using the included screws, tighten the protector to the tabs gently. Do not over-tighten - just enough to hold it firmly in place.
✔ Check Each Mount Point:
Ensure every clips are snug, flush, and secured. Work symmetrically to keep the pressure even across the protector.
🔹 Pro Tip:
If your model uses foam or rubber spacers, apply them where the protector rests against the paint. This prevents potential vibration wear.
Step 4: Final Check & Cleaning
✔ Inspect Alignment:
Stand back and confirm that the bonnet protector is centered and symmetrical. Minor adjustments can often be made before fully tightening all fixings.
✔ Gently Wipe the Surface:
Using a microfiber cloth, clean off fingerprints or smudges.
✔ Check for Movement:
Open and close the bonnet a few times to ensure there’s no contact or interference.
Optional: Remove & Reinstall for Cleaning
One of the best features of this protector is how easily it can be removed for a deeper clean:
- Simply unscrew and unclip as needed.
- Rinse with mild soap and water.
- Dry fully before reinstalling with the original hardware.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
🛠 Protector Doesn’t Sit Flush
✔ Solution: Double-check that the clip tabs are fully seated and not twisted. Remove and re-clip if needed.
🛠 Vibration Noise When Driving
✔ Solution: Add small clear vinyl pads or foam spacers between protector and bonnet. This dampens resonance.
🛠 Screws Don’t Bite or Feel Loose
✔ Solution: Check that correct tab holes are aligned. Avoid over-torquing - hand-tight is typically sufficient.
Final Thoughts
A properly installed HIC Bonnet Protector not only enhances your 4WD, SUV or vehicle’s front-end aesthetics but also guards your paintwork from the harsh Aussie road conditions. Its premium-grade acrylic finish delivers clarity and toughness that outperforms clear film-based protectors - no yellowing, no bubbling and no fuss.
Expert Summary:
Take your time to align and fit each clip with care. The result? A seamless, durable upgrade that preserves your car's value while making a bold impression out on the road.
🔧 Need help visualising the installation?
While we don't currently offer a dedicated installation video for our bonnet protectors, there are numerous helpful videos on YouTube that demonstrate similar clip-on bonnet protector installs. Link below:
https://www.youtube.com/results?search_query=bonnet+protector+install
✅ Explore Our Premium Bonnet Protector Range:
Shop the Full Bonnet Protector Collection
✅ Discover All Premium Automotive Accessories:
View All our Premium Products at HIC Australia
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