MK2 Facelift

[lemoncharlie]

Hi,
I've been offered the bumper, lights etc from a 2004 "Facelift" model Galaxy. Before I buy it, was wondering whether it's literally a matter of simply swapping the parts over? I don't want to buy it all and find out it's a nightmare to do. Also, is it correct the bonnet needs to be replaced as well?
Assuming I get positive replies, does the facelift look really good in the flesh? seems nice in the photos!
thanks.

[insanitybeard]

To the best of my knowledge, the only real differences with the 2004 facelift model on the outside are the addition of a number of chrome embellishments (at least on the Zetec and Ghia models, the LX may have got a few of them)- I don't think the bumper is any different, it's just that the various trims that go into it are chrome instead of black plastic- foglight surrounds, lower grille has a chrome strip that runs along the middle of it, upper grille has a chrome outer band with a matching chrome lip on the edge of the bonnet. The parts should all be interchangeable and fit older models with the possible exception of trying to fit the chrome strip and aerofoil from the later model onto an earlier bonnet- I'm not sure if the later bonnet is modified to accept fixing clips for the chrome strip or if it simply sticks/ clamps on, the black 'aerofoil' strip running along the rear edge which is missing on the earlier models may also have fixing holes the earlier bonnet lacked, but the later complete bonnet should just bolt on to the original hinges. I stand to be corrected of course!

The outer rear lamp clusters (the ones on the body- not the bootlid) have different styling but should also be interchangeable- I can't imagine the connectors would be any different, and the Ghia model also got painted door handles with chrome strips and a tailgate handle (the bit that houses the number plate lamps) with a chrome band on the bottom edge.

I do like the look of the 2004 on model, the chrome additions add a nice touch.

[lemoncharlie]

Thanks for that Insanitybeard, very helpful. I'll look into the rear lights and other bits you mentioned as well. Do you have any thoughts on the price of the bumper with all the lights + the bonnet?

[insanitybeard]

Depends on the condition I suppose, especially the paintwork. If it's all good and you're getting the bumper complete with all lamps, grilles, parking sensors etc and the bonnet too then it's got to be worth a couple hundred quid at least, in my opinion of course!

[Mirez]

The whole lot is fully interchangeable, including the bits mentioned above. The bonnet chrome is stuck and riveted on (the holes need drilling but are pre in-dented) and the aerofoil mounts up to the existing points from the covers you remove.

[lemoncharlie]

Thank you, I'm hoping it's all going to be in good condition, have asked for the rear lights as well..will find out next week when he gets the car in for breaking