Radiator grille Škoda Rapid 2020: how to choose, replace and upgrade

Radiator grille Škoda Rapid 2020 is not just a decorative element, but a key detail that affects engine cooling, aerodynamics and the appearance of the car. Even minor damage - cracks, chips or deformations - can lead to overheating of the power unit or poor air flow to the air conditioner condenser. At the same time, the factory grille often suffers from mechanical influences: impacts from stones on the highway, unsuccessful parking, or even vandalism.

Owners Rapid The 2020 model year is faced with two main problems: the choice between original spare parts and analogues, as well as the difficulty of replacing them yourself. In this article we will analyze articles and prices on the grilles, we will give step-by-step instructions for dismantling/installation, and also show tuning options - from carbon inserts to LED accents. We will place special emphasis on typical mistakes, which lead to repeated repairs after a few months.

Original radiator grilles for Škoda Rapid 2020: articles and prices

Factory grille for Škoda Rapid The 2020 model year is available under several article numbers depending on the configuration and market. Main original numbers:

• 🔹 5E6 805 211 B 9B9 — standard grille for basic versions (black, without chrome elements).
• 🔹 5E6 805 211 C 9B9 — option with chrome edging (installed on Style and Sport).
• 🔹 5E6 805 211 D 9B9 — grille for restyled models (from 2021, but compatible with 2020).

The cost of original grilles in official dealership centers varies from 8,500 to 12,000 rubles depending on the region. However, purchasing through online stores (for example, Exist.ru or Autodoc) allows you to save up to 30%. It is important to check compatibility by VIN code, as even within the same model year there could be design changes.

When ordering, pay attention to complete set: Some grilles are sold without mounting clips and seals. For example, article 5E6 805 211 B often requires additional purchase of clips N 908 132 01 (about 300 rubles per set).

Analogs and non-original grilles: what to choose?

If your budget is limited, you can consider analogues from trusted manufacturers. Among them:

Brand	Article	Price (RUB)	Features
Hella	8PA 355 109-031	5 200–6 500	High quality plastic, precise geometry
Febi Bilstein	36720	4 800–5 900	Good compatibility, but there may be problems with attaching the clips
Topran	205 805	3 500–4 200	Budget option, requires adjustment
Dello	301200100	4 000–4 800	Average quality, suitable for temporary replacement

When choosing an analogue, pay attention to material: Cheap grilles made from recycled plastic can crack after just a year of use. Also check mounting holes - in some non-original models they are shifted by 1-2 mm, which complicates installation.

⚠️ Attention! Lattices from Volkswagen Polo Sedan (even with an identical part number) may not fit due to differences in the shape of the mounts to the bumper. Always check catalogs for VIN.

Step-by-step instructions for replacing the radiator grille

Replacing the grille with Škoda Rapid 2020 does not require special tools, but will require accuracy. The whole process will take about 40–60 minutes. You will need:

• 🔧 Flathead screwdriver or plastic puller
• 🔧 10 mm socket wrench (for removing bumper)
• 🔧 New grill and set of clips
• 🔧 Hair dryer (to soften seals)

Sequence of actions:

1. Removing the bumper: Unscrew the 4 bolts under the hood (2 on the sides and 2 at the bottom) and 2 bolts in the wheel arches. Gently pull the bumper towards you, disconnecting the clips around the perimeter.
2. Removing the old grille: Press the fasteners from the inside (there are 6 of them) and remove the grille along with the sealing rubber.
3. Installing a new grille: Check the integrity of the seal. If it is damaged, replace it with a new one (5E6 805 710). Secure the grill starting with the top clips.
4. Assembly: Reinstall the bumper in reverse order, making sure all latches are in place.

Check the compatibility of the article with the VIN code

Clean the mounting holes from dirt

Lubricate the seal with silicone grease

Make sure the clips are not damaged-->

The most common mistake is incorrect fixation of the lower clips. If they do not click completely, the grille will rattle on uneven surfaces. Also don't forget about gap alignment: There should be a uniform gap of 2–3 mm between the grille and the bumper.

Tuning the radiator grille: modernization options

Standard grille Škoda Rapid It looks laconic, but many owners want individuality. Here are the popular tuning options:

• 🎨 Painting: Matting of chrome elements or complete repainting in body color (shades are popular Race Blue or Candy White).
• 💎 Carbon inserts: Stickers or solid carbon panels (such as from 3M Di-Noc). Cost - from 2,500 rubles.
• 💡 LED accents: Installation of LED strips along the contour of the grille (requires connection to dimensions or a separate control unit).
• 🔄 Sports grilles: Replacement with models with larger air intakes (for example, from ABT Sportsline).

When tuning, it is important not to overdo it closing air channels. For example, completely covering the grille with film can lead to engine overheating in traffic jams. The best option is to maintain at least 60% of the open area for air flow.

How to avoid problems with the traffic police when tuning the grille?

According to clause 7.18 of Appendix 8 to the Technical Regulations, changes that impair visibility or lighting devices are prohibited. Therefore:

- Do not cover more than 30% of the area of the headlights or PTF with the grille.

- Avoid sharp elements that could injure pedestrians.

- LED strips must be white or yellow (red/blue are prohibited).

To paint the grille yourself, we recommend using aerosol paints with a primer (for example, Motip or Krylon Fusion). Pre-degrease the surface White spirit and apply 2-3 layers with intermediate drying for 15 minutes.

Typical problems and their solutions

Even after correctly replacing the grille, owners Škoda Rapid may run into trouble. Let's look at the most common ones:

1. Whistle at speed: Occurs due to a loose fit of the grille to the bumper. The solution is to glue the joints 3M VHB tape.
2. Cracks in plastic: More often appear in winter due to temperature changes. Prevention - plastic processing Plastic Reviver (for example, from Sonax).
3. Headlights fogging: If the grille covers the ventilation holes, moisture will not escape from the headlights. Check the gaps around the grille.

Critical error: using silicone sealant to fix the grille. It is destroyed by exposure to sunlight and can get into the radiator, clogging the honeycombs. For fastening, use only standard clips or special automotive adhesives (for example, Teroson MS 9399).

⚠️ Attention! If after replacing the grille a extraneous noise from under the hood, immediately check the radiator mounting. It is possible that when dismantling the bumper, its upper clamps became loose.

Where to buy a radiator grille for Škoda Rapid 2020: trusted suppliers

Choosing where to buy depends on your priorities: speed, price or warranty. Here are the tested options:

Supplier	Pros	Cons	Average delivery time
Official Škoda dealer	100% original, 1 year warranty	High price, long lead time	3–7 days
Exist.ru	Wide range, prices below dealer	Possible fakes of the original	2–5 days
Autodoc	Convenient selection by VIN, frequent discounts	Long delivery to regions	5–14 days
Showdown (Bamper.by, Drom.ru)	The price is 2–3 times lower than the original	Risk of buying a broken part	1–3 days

When buying at a disassembly site, always ask photo of fastenings — grilles are often removed from emergency vehicles where the clips are already broken. Also check if you have saved original markings (there should be a label with the article number on the inside).

FAQ: Frequently asked questions about the Škoda Rapid 2020 radiator grille

Is it possible to drive without a radiator grille?

Short term - yes, but not recommended. Without a grille, the radiator and air conditioning condenser are exposed to stones and dirt, resulting in accelerated wear of honeycombs. In addition, aerodynamics deteriorate, which can increase fuel consumption by 0.3–0.5 l/100 km.

What glue should I use to repair cracks in grilles?

Suitable for plastic grilles 3M Scotch-Weld DP8005 (two-component epoxy adhesive) or Loctite Plastics Bonding System. Before gluing it is necessary clean and degrease surface. Use fiberglass for reinforcement.

Will the grille from the 2019 Škoda Rapid fit the 2020 model?

Yes, but with reservations. There were no changes to the grille design in 2020, but they could have changed mounting clips. Before purchasing, check the article numbers or take the grille with you to try it on.

What to do if after replacing the grille the air conditioner starts to work worse?

Most likely, the grille is blocking the air flow to the condenser. Check:

1. The gap between the grille and the radiator (must be at least 20 mm).
2. Integrity of sealing rubber.
3. No deformation on the grill itself.

If the problem persists, return the old grille and compare the throughput.

Is it possible to wash the radiator grille in a high pressure car wash?

It is possible, but with caution. Direct the stream of water perpendicular surface of the grate, and not at an angle. The pressure should not exceed 100 bar. The places where the clips are attached are especially vulnerable - strong pressure can break them.