A grille guard can protect your vehicle from damage caused by minor and moderate impacts and offers a quick and easy way to give your vehicle a more aggressive appearance.
Finding the best grille guard for your vehicle means reading reviews, studying product features, and diving into the ins and outs of available styles and configurations. With the right grille guard, upgrading your vehicle’s look while protecting its front end can become a quick, over-and-done-with task.
We reviewed dozens of grille guards to identify the best of the best, based on Amazon reviews, how well they performed in tests, cost, and other considerations. We narrowed our search down to 5 of the top-rated grille guards vehicle owners can purchase to ensure a stylish and protected ride.
We’ve identified Westin HDX Grille Guard as the best grille guard out there. With a fully welded one-piece construction with full wraparound wings, this grille guard is one that will keep your vehicle’s front end in tip-top shape.
In This Article
The 5 Top-Rated Grille Guards
| Editor's Picks | Brand | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| Best Grille Guard Overall | Westin HDX Grille Guard | 4.2 |
| Best No-Drill Grille Guard | Westin 40-3845 Sportsman Grille Guard | 4.9 |
| Best Budget Grille Guard | All Sales AMI 19285K Swing Step Flat Grille Guard | 4.3 |
| Best Stainless Steel Grille Guard | ARIES 4076-2 Polished Stainless Steel Grille Guard | 4.6 |
| Best Chrome Grille Guard | Westin 32-1690 Ultimate Chrome Stainless Steel Grille Guard | 4.7 |
*Ratings are from Amazon at the time of publication and can change
Best Grille Guard Overall: Westin HDX Grille Guard
The Westin HDX Grille Guard took the top spot on our list of the best grille guards thanks in large part to its fully welded one-piece construction with full wraparound wings, which provides stronger, more stable protection for your ride. It is compatible with 2009-2014 Ford F-150 trucks, excluding Raptor and Harley Davidson versions. It features durable black steel construction, with 2-inch diameter tubes for increased strength.
Those who purchased and reviewed this grille guard appreciated the sturdiness of this product, saying, “It is heavy duty and I love the look of it on my FX4.” While professional installation is recommended, many people said they were able to install this grille guard on their own without any problems. Those who needed to contact customer service said they were “excellent” and added that they get many compliments on the appearance of this guard.
With a price tag of about $693, it doesn’t come cheap, but the quality craftsmanship associated with the brand, as well as the ease of installation more than justifies that price. It has excellent ratings with hundreds of people reviewing it, which we think goes a long way in convincing people to make the investment.
Westin HDX Grille Guard Key Features:
- Powdercoated finish for increased longevity
- Mounting bracket kit included
- Rubber padding on uprights minimizes minor impacts
Best No-Drill Grille Guard: Westin 40-3845 Sportsman Grille Guard
The Westin 40-3845 Sportsman Grille Guard took the runner-up spot on our list of the best grille guards and features integrated light mounting holes for increasing your visibility. The removable headlight area crossbars let you customize the appearance of your guard, which boasts a fully welded 1-piece construction for solid strength and a stable mount. It is compatible with various Chevy trucks.
Those who purchased and reviewed this grille guard appreciated that there was no drilling required to install this product, and commented they were “really impressed” with the appearance of this guard on their truck. Overall, people found this guard to be well-made, adding, “Pretty easy to install with a little cutting in a couple of spots. Looks really good.”
At a cost of around $450, it doesn’t come cheap, but the quality craftsmanship associated with the brand, as well as the ease of setup and use more than justifies that price. It has very good ratings with hundreds of people reviewing it, which we think goes a long way in convincing people to make the investment.
Westin 40-3845 Sportsman Grille Guard Key Features:
- Rubber padding on uprights minimizes minor impacts
- Mounting bracket kit included
- Includes a 3-year warranty
Best Budget Grille Guard: All Sales AMI 19285K Swing Step Flat Grille Guard
The All Sales AMI 19285K Swing Step Flat Grille Guard is an excellent choice for those looking for a grille guard that won’t break the bank. It offers the added protection and stylish appearance of many popular grilled guards, but at a fraction of the cost. It comes complete with an integrated step that swings down in order to provide easy access to the vehicle’s engine area. It boasts a sleek and durable black powder coated finish.
Those who purchased and reviewed this grille guard appreciated that it was easy to install, saying, “Install took roughly half-hour, went on smoothly! Step swing is ok, gets you up to look in the engine bay but not useful to reach towards the back.” People were disappointed it didn’t come with mounting brackets, but this gives you options when mourning on your specific vehicle.
With a cost of approximately $218, this grille guard is a solid choice for those looking for a grille guard option on a budget. It has great ratings from hundreds of people who’ve reviewed it, which we think goes a long way in convincing people that this budget-friendly pick is just as good at protecting their front end as its more expensive counterparts.
All Sales AMI 19285K Swing Step Flat Grille Guard Key Features:
- Installation brackets sold separately
- Universal fit compatible with many trucks makes and models
- Made in the USA
Best Stainless Steel Grille Guard: ARIES 4076-2 Polished Stainless Steel Grille Guard
The ARIES 4076-2 Polished Stainless Steel Grille Guard is an excellent option for those looking for a stainless steel grille guard, adding an aggressive, aftermarket look to your vehicle. The polished finish accents your vehicle’s existing features and integrates with the design of the front end. It’s also corrosion and rust-resistant for added durability and longevity. It is constructed from a high-strength, one-piece frame, using welded stainless steel tubing with a 1.5-inch diameter.
Those who purchased and reviewed this grille guard appreciated that it was easy to mount and install, and came in a choice of two finish options. People also commented on the inclusion of contoured brush guards, which help provide a more streamlined, stylish appearance.
With a price tag of about $625, it doesn’t come cheap, but the quality craftsmanship associated with the brand, as well as the ease of installation and use more than justifies that price. It has very good ratings with hundreds of people reviewing it, which we think goes a long way in convincing people to make the investment.
ARIES 4076-2 Polished Stainless Steel Grille Guard Key Features:
- Rubber padding on uprights minimizes minor impacts
- Easy, no-drill installation
- Compatible with select Hummer H2 model years
Best Chrome Grille Guard: Westin 32-1690 Ultimate Chrome Stainless Steel Grille Guard
The Westin 32-1690 Ultimate Chrome Stainless Steel Grille Guard is a solid choice for those wanting a chrome-finish grille guard. It is constructed of a heavy-duty 3-inch stainless steel tubing in order to provide a high level of durability and maximum protection against rust. Its rugged appearance appeals to those who live an active lifestyle, while still giving your vehicle additional protection from impacts.
Those who purchased and reviewed this grille guard appreciated the look it gave their vehicle, saying things like, “nice polished chrome appearance.” People also liked that it came complete with pre-drilled holes “so installing off-road lights would be easy,” adding, “Skid plate has very sharp edges so be careful when handling.”
At a cost of around $360, it’s not as expensive as a lot of the other grille guards on our list, but the quality craftsmanship associated with the brand, as well as the ease of installation and use more than justifies that price. It has really good ratings from hundreds of people who’ve reviewed it, which we think goes a long way in convincing people to make the investment.
Westin 32-1690 Ultimate Chrome Stainless Steel Grille Guard Key Features:
- Stylish laser-cut Weston logo on the skid plate
- Mounting bracket kit included
- Includes a lifetime warranty
Who Should Buy a Grille Guard
A grille guard is an ideal choice for those who want to protect the front end of their vehicle from damage, as a grille guard will cover the entire front end of your vehicle, including wrapping around the headlights. Cage-like in appearance, a grill guard works by attaching to the front of a vehicle in order to provide added protection to the vehicle headlights or grille in case of a collision. It will absorb the impact of a collision, helping keep the parts behind it safe from damage.
Additionally, a grille guard is also a good choice for those who may come across large wildlife in their travels. Research has shown that a properly installed grille guard provides effective protection for a truck’s front end in collisions with large animals.
Finally, some people find that grille guards offer added protection when driving off-road, preventing the brush from damaging their headlights, bumper, and grille.
For a bit of protection and appearance boost to the back of your car, you may want to check out The Best Window Louvers.
Important Features to Consider
Not all grille guards are created equal. A grille guard should be easy to install and offer the protection your vehicle needs. Here’s what to consider when evaluating the options in search of the best grille guard for your vehicle:
- Size. Arguably the most important consideration when it comes to choosing the best grille guard for your vehicle is its size. While some grille guards available today offer a universal fit, most of them are specifically sized for various makes and models of vehicles. Be sure to check the compatibility of any grille guard you’re considering with your vehicle’s make and model.
- Material. The next most important thing to look for when shopping for a grille guard is the material it’s made from. Grille guards are typically made from steel or aluminum. Aluminum may be more lightweight than steel, but it is also not as strong. If you’re looking for the best protection for impact, a steel grille guard is your best bet.
- Center grate. While even the most basic grille guard will keep your headlights and front-end protected, it might not prevent other hazards such as small rocks from scratching your bumper. A grille guard with a protective center grate in a mesh or grated pattern can help to ensure your front-end is fully covered and protected from whatever the road might throw your way.
- Auxiliary light mounts. If you use your vehicle for off-roading, look for a grille guard with auxiliary light mounts and pre-drilled holes, as they’ll provide the additional visibility you’ll need for such conditions.
- Winch mounts. Some grille guards offer winch mounting, which makes it super easy to bring along your winch anytime you hit the road. Some grille guards can handle electric winches, while others are suitable for use with hydraulic models.
- Front step. If you need a little boost to pop the hood on your truck or SUV, a grille guard with an integrated step is just the ticket. The step typically stows away when it’s not in use.
- Finish. Grille guards come in a number of finish choices, including glossy, black powder, stainless steel, and chrome. This is simply a matter of aesthetics, so choose the grille guard that best matches your vehicle and personal preference.
- Price point. Finally, consider how much you are willing to spend on a grille guard. Grille guards vary in price from $250-$700 or more.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are grille guards and how do they work?
Grille guards are a type of automotive accessory which covers the front of a vehicle. They are cage-like in appearance and work by attaching to the front of a vehicle in order to provide added protection to the vehicle headlights or grille in case of a collision.
Do grille guards affect gas mileage?
According to various fuel economy tests, grille guards do not negatively impact gas mileage, which means that adding a grille guard to your vehicle will not negatively affect your fuel economy. Additionally, grille guards are lightweight enough that their addition to a vehicle is negligible in terms of overall vehicle weight, and their design does not impact the aerodynamics of the vehicle, which would result in increased fuel use.
Is a grille guard the same as a bull bar?
No, a grille guard is not the same as a bull bar. A grille guard will cover the entire front end of your vehicle, including wrapping around the headlights. A bull bar, on the other hand, only protects the middle of your vehicle’s front end, leaving the headlights exposed to possible damage.
Do grille guards help in accidents?
Yes, grille guards do help in accidents. Because they are placed at the forefront of the vehicle, they can help to lessen impact damage to the vehicle’s front end in the event of a collision. Grille guards are made of sturdy materials that help them to absorb any impact from an accident while protecting the more expensive headlight components or grille of your vehicle. Research has found that a properly installed grille guard provides effective protection for a truck’s front grille, bumper, headlights, and body panels in various types of collisions, including collisions with large animals, low-speed parking lot accidents, or when plowing through brush during off-road driving.
Other Grille Guards We Reviewed
We looked at 20 other grille guards. Even though they didn’t make our 5 best grille guards list, they’re the best of the rest and each is still a great option for protecting your front end. The information you’ll need to compare each one is included with the listing.
No Drill Grille Guards
Hunter Premium Truck Accessories Stainless Steel Grille Guard
This no-drill grille guard boasts a durable stainless steel tubing construction and is compatible with 2000-2006 Toyota Tundras as well as 2001-2004 Sequoia models.
Key Features:
- Thick rubber protectors
- Mounting bracket kit included
- Limited lifetime warranty
Cost: $329
ARIES 2068 Black Steel Grille Guard
This no-drill grille guard boasts pre-drilled light mounting holes for LED lights and gives your truck an aggressive look while keeping your front end protected.
Key Features:
- High-strength, one-piece frame
- Corrosion-resistent construction
- Fits select Toyota Tacoma models
Cost: $473
Hunter Premium Truck Accessories Black Grille Guard
This no-drill grille guard boasts removable headlight covers and comes complete with a durable five-stage black powder-coated finish.
Key Features:
- Thick rubber protectors
- Mounting bracket kit included
- Limited 5-year warranty
Cost: $289
Hunter Premium Truck Accessories Stainless Steel Grille Guard
This no-drill grille guard boasts durable and long-lasting stainless steel tubing and uprights and is designed for use with the 2005-2008 Nissan Xterra.
Key Features:
- Thick rubber protectors
- Mounting bracket kit included
- Limited lifetime warranty
Cost: $329
ARIES 2049 Black Steel Grille Guard
This no-drill grille guard boasts pre-drilled light mounting holes for LED lights and is made using a high-strength, one-piece frame with welded steel tubing.
Key Features:
- Vertical risers covered with rubber stripping
- Corrosion-resistant construction
- Fit select Toyota Tacoma models
Stainless Steel Grille Guards
Hunter Premium Truck Accessories Stainless Steel Grille Guard
This stainless steel grille guard boasts durable and long-lasting stainless steel tubing and uprights and comes complete with removable headlight guards.
Key Features:
- Fits 1999-2002 Chevy Silverado
- Mounting bracket kit included
- Limited lifetime warranty
Cost: $329
DNA MOTORING GRILL-G-063-SS Front Bumper Brush Grille Guard
This stainless steel grille guard boasts a durable and long-lasting alloy construction with a polished finish and is compatible with 2003-2009 4Runners.
Key Features:
- Bolt-on application
- Pre-drilled holes for front-mounted fog lights
- Mounting brackets are powder coated
Cost: $310
Hunter Premium Truck Accessories Stainless Steel Grille Guard
This stainless steel grille guard boasts polished tubing and uprights for a clean, stylish appearance, and comes complete with thick rubber on the uprights for added protection.
Key Features:
- Removable headlight guards
- Mounting bracket kit included
- Limited lifetime warranty
Cost: $329
DNA Motoring GRILL-G-006-SS Grille Guard
This stainless steel grille guard boasts a durable alloy construction with a polished finish and is suitable for use with a variety of older-model GMC and Chevy vehicles.
Key Features:
- Bolt-on application
- Pre-drilled holes for front-mounted fog lights
- Rubber padding on uprights minimizes minor impacts
Cost: $352
Auto Dynasty Brush Grille Guard
This stainless steel grille guard boasts powdered coated mounting brackets for added longevity and is suitable for use with various models of Toyota Tacomas.
Key Features:
- Bolt-on application
- Pre-drilled holes for front-mounted fog lights
- Rubber padding on uprights minimizes minor impacts
Cost: $329
DNA MOTORING GRILL-G-072-SS Front Bumper Protector Grille Guard
This stainless steel grille guard boasts rubber padding on the uprights to help minimize minor impacts and comes complete with pre-drilled holes for front-mounted fog lights.
Key Features:
- Powder-coated mounting brackets
- Compatible with 2005-2015 Tacoma
- Polished finish
Cost: $340
DNA MOTORING GRILL-G-065-BK Grille Guard
This stainless steel grille guard boasts a durable alloy construction with black powder-coated finish for a stylish appearance without compromising on safety and durability.
Key Features:
- Rubber padding on uprights minimizes minor impacts
- Bolt-on application
- Compatible with 2007-2014 FJ Cruiser
Black Grille Guards
This black grille guard gives your ride an aggressive and metallic appearance and comes complete with pre-drilled light mounting holes for increased visibility.
Key Features:
- Includes a 5-year warranty
- Compatible with 2015-2019 Ford Transit vans
- Mounting bracket kit included
Cost: $249
RAMPAGE PRODUCTS 7659 Black Euro Front Grille Guard
This black grille guard boasts a tubular, Euro-style design to give your vehicle a more rugged appearance, and is crafted from durable black powder-coated stainless steel.
Key Features:
- No drill installation
- Corrosion-resistant construction
- Compatible with 1987-2006 Jeep Wrangler YJ and TJ
Cost: $140
DNA MOTORING Front Bumper Brush Grille Guard
This black grille guard boasts a durable alloy steel construction and comes complete with rubber padding on the uprights in order to help minimize minor impacts.
Key Features:
- Pre-drilled fog light holes
- Compatible with 2002-2007 Jeep Liberty
- Bolt-on application
Cost: $215
TAC Grille Guard Compatible with 2010-2018 Dodge Ram 2500/3500
This black grille guard gives an aggressive style and toughness to your vehicle and comes complete with pre-drilled mounting holes for additional lights.
Key Features:
- Compatible with 2010-2018 Dodge Ram 2500/3500
- Heavy-duty steel construction
- Rubber padding on uprights minimizes minor impacts
Cost: $399
Hunter Premium Truck Accessories Black Grille Guard
This black grille guard boasts thick, durable rubber padding on the uprights in order to help minimize minor impacts, and is compatible with the 2009-2018 Nissan Xterra, 2009-2018 Frontier, and 2008-2012 Pathfinder.
Key Features:
- Mounting bracket kit included
- Limited lifetime warranty
- No drill installation
Cost: $289
BLACK HORSE 17FP32MA Black Grille Guard
This black grille guard boasts rust- and corrosion-resistant design and features no-drill installation for ease of setup and use.
Key Features:
- Mounting bracket kit included
- Heavy-duty steel construction
- Pre-drilled light mounting holes
Cost: $375
Westin 40-3545 Sportsman Grille Guard
This black grille guard boasts a fully welded single-piece construction in order to provide solid strength and a stable mount.
Key Features:
- Mounting bracket kit included
- No-drill installation
- Pre-drilled light mounting holes
Cost: $543
Auto Dynasty Front Bumper Protector Brush Grille Guard
This black grille guard boasts a durable and long-lasting alloy construction and comes complete with rubber padding on the uprights in order to help minimize minor impacts.
Key Features:
- Pre-drilled light mounting holes
- Bolt-on application
- Compatible with Jeep Grand Cherokee WJ
Cost: $299
