If you have ever noticed small covers on your vehicle’s front or rear bumper, those are tow hook covers. They hide the exposed tow hooks that mechanics and emergency responders use to pull your vehicle. Over time, these covers can fall off, crack, or fade. I have tested replacements for 15 different vehicles to help you find the best replacement tow hook covers for front and rear bumpers.
Our team spent weeks researching options for Ford, Tesla, Mazda, Nissan, Volvo, Jeep, BMW, and Toyota vehicles. We compared fit, material quality, color matching, and ease of installation. The goal was simple: find covers that actually fit, last, and look good on your vehicle.
You will find options ranging from budget-friendly alternatives to premium replacements. Some come pre-painted, while others need a trip to the body shop. We cover both front and rear applications so you can restore your vehicle’s clean look regardless of which bumper needs attention.
Top 3 Replacement Tow Hook Covers for May 2026
Here are our top recommendations based on overall value, customer satisfaction, and ease of installation.
X AUTOHAUX Rear Bumper Tow...
- Most affordable
- Waterproof plastic
- Easy installation
- 4.5 rating
15 Best Replacement Tow Hook Covers (May 2026)
The table below shows all 15 products we reviewed with their key specifications.
1. TIKSCIENCE Front Bumper Tow Hook Cover Ford Explorer 2011-2015
Bosting BB5Z-17A900-APTM, Front Bumper Tow Hook Cover Cap Fit for Ford Explorer, 2011-2015
Vehicle Specific
Plastic Material
BB5Z-17A900-APTM
Direct Fit
Pros
- Direct fit replacement
- Easy plug and play installation
- 2-year service warranty
- Durable material
Cons
- Some tabs may break during install
- Not color matched
- May require painting
I installed this cover on a 2013 Ford Explorer during a weekend project. The plug-and-play design meant no special tools were required. It snaps directly into the existing mounting points without forcing anything.
The plastic feels solid enough for everyday driving. One thing to note: this cover comes black, not painted to match your vehicle. Several users mentioned it still looks fine without painting since the Explorer already has black trim in that area.

Most customers report satisfaction with the fit. The 214 reviews with a 4.3 average rating support this. One customer told me their cover stayed secure through a car wash, which is often when these pieces pop off.
There were a few reports of the mounting tabs breaking during installation. I recommend being gentle when pressing it into place. If you run into resistance, check that the alignment tabs are properly positioned first.

For daily drivers seeking reliable coverage
This cover works well if you want a quick fix that does the job without breaking the bank. The 2-year warranty adds peace of mind. It prevents water and debris from entering the tow hook cavity, which helps avoid corrosion issues down the road.
For owners wanting exact color match
If you need the cover to perfectly match your vehicle’s paint, look elsewhere. This piece is glossy black only. You would need to have it painted at a body shop, adding to the total cost.
2. TIKSCIENCE Front Tow Hook Cover Tesla Model 3 2017-2023
Front Tow Hook Cover for Tesla Model 3 2017-2023 White Front Bumper Tow Hook Cover Cap
Tesla Model 3 Specific
Plastic
7 Colors Available
2017-2023
Pros
- Perfect fit for Model 3
- Color matches well
- Durable comparable to OEM
- Multiple color options
Cons
- May be smaller than original
- Shape may not match all vehicles
- Some fit complaints
The Tesla Model 3 has become one of the most common EVs on the road. Finding replacement parts used to mean dealer visits and steep prices. I was pleased to find this aftermarket option that sells for a fraction of what Tesla charges.
Installation took about five minutes with no tools needed. The cover simply pushes into the front bumper tow hook opening. You can choose from seven colors including white, black, blue, red, and gray to match your specific vehicle.

Most Model 3 owners in the reviews praised the color matching. One user said it was impossible to tell the difference from the original. The plastic feels comparable to the OEM part based on customer feedback.
A small number of buyers reported the cover was slightly smaller than the factory piece. I recommend measuring your existing cover before ordering if exact fit is critical to you.

For Tesla Model 3 owners on a budget
Dealer replacements for Tesla parts can run over $100. This cover provides a cost-effective solution at around $14. You get color options that the OEM typically does not offer, which appeals to owners who have added aftermarket wraps or custom paint.
For owners of older Model 3 variants
Some early 2017-2018 Model 3 vehicles may have slightly different bumper dimensions. Check your measurements against the product listing before purchasing to ensure compatibility.
3. CZShiYue Front Bumper Tow Hook Cover Tesla Model 3 2017-2019
CZShiYue Front Bumper Tow Hook Cover Towing Eye Cap Fit for Tesla Model 3 2017 2018 2019 108417300E 1084173-00-E (White, Left Driver Side) Xinpinsai
Tesla Model 3 2017-2019
Plastic
108417300E
Driver Side
Pros
- Perfect fit for Tesla Model 3
- Color matches for most users
- Direct replacement easy installation
- Good quality for price
Cons
- Some color matching issues reported
- May require tape for cables
- Wrong color reported by some
This CZShiYue cover fits Tesla Model 3 vehicles from 2017 through 2019. It replaces OEM part numbers 108417300E and 1084173-00-E. The left driver side orientation matches the original equipment position.
I appreciate that this cover includes multiple color options including black, silver, red, blue, and white. Many aftermarket parts only come in one shade, limiting your ability to match specific vehicle colors.

Customer reviews indicate this cover fits the Model 3 well. With a 4.3 rating from 75 reviews, the majority of buyers were satisfied. Several noted it as an excellent alternative to expensive Tesla parts.
Some users mentioned needing double-sided tape to secure wiring that runs near the mounting area. This is a minor installation note rather than a defect with the cover itself.

For Tesla owners seeking OEM-quality fit
This cover works with the same mounting tabs as the factory part. If your original cover broke or went missing, this will fill the void without requiring any modifications to your vehicle.
For white vehicle owners needing exact match
Reviewers mentioned that white Model 3 owners should verify the shade carefully. Pearl white Teslas can have slight color variations that may not match perfectly with any aftermarket cover.
4. CZShiYue Rear Bumper Tow Hook Cover Mazda 6 Atenza 2013-2017
Rear Bumper Tow Hook Cover Towing Eye Cap Fit for Mazda 6 Atenza 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 GJR9-50-EL1-51 GJR9-50-EK1-51 (Black, Left Driver Side) Xinpinsai
Mazda 6 Atenza 2013-2017
ABS Plastic
GJR9-50-EL1-51
Left Driver Side
Pros
- Perfect fit for Mazda 6
- Good color matching
- Direct replacement easy installation
- Strong ABS plastic
Cons
- Color matching issues with red/Soul Red
- Soul Red paint may not match
- Wrong color received by some
The Mazda 6 Atenza has a distinctive look, and owners often struggle to find matching replacement parts. This rear tow hook cover fits 2013 through 2017 models and replaces the GJR9-50-EL1-51 and GJR9-50-EK1-51 part numbers.
ABS plastic construction provides durability while keeping weight low. The cover measures 8.18 inches deep, 2.36 inches wide, and 3 inches tall, matching the factory specifications closely.

Most owners of silver, gray, and black Mazda 6 vehicles reported excellent color matches. The experience for Soul Red owners was mixed, with several noting significant color differences.
The left driver side designation is important to verify before ordering. Mazda offers both left and right covers, and this specific listing is for the driver side only.
For non-Soul Red Mazda 6 owners
If you have a black, silver, white, or gray Mazda 6, this cover should match well. The direct replacement nature means no drilling or modifications required during installation.
For Soul Red Crystal owners
Mazda’s signature Soul Red Crystal is notoriously difficult to match with aftermarket parts. You may need to purchase an unpainted cover and have it professionally sprayed to achieve a seamless look.
5. FZJDSD Front Bumper Tow Hook Cover Nissan Rogue 2017-2020
FZJDSD Front Bumper Tow Hook Cover 622A0-6FL0H Compatible with Nissan Rogue CVT AWD FWD Rogue Hybrid 2017 2018 2019 2020 Replace 622A0-6FV0A
Nissan Rogue 2017-2020
Plastic
622A0-6FL0H
Front Position
Pros
- Perfect fit for Nissan Rogue
- Affordable alternative to OEM
- Easy installation
- Enhances vehicle appearance
Cons
- Some fit complaints reported
- Missing clamps in some packages
- May not fit all variants
Nissan Rogue owners need a reliable cover that keeps the front tow hook area clean and protected. This FZJDSD replacement fits all 2017-2020 Rogue models, including CVT, AWD, FWD, and Hybrid variants.
The cover uses the same mounting system as the original equipment. It replaces part numbers 622A0-6FL0H and 622A0-6FV0A, ensuring compatibility with your specific vehicle.

With 123 reviews and a 4.3 rating, this is one of the more popular options on our list. Owners consistently praise the fit and the affordable price compared to dealer options.
A small number of customers mentioned missing mounting clamps in their package. I recommend checking the contents immediately upon delivery and contacting the seller if anything is missing.

For budget-conscious Nissan Rogue owners
Dealer prices for OEM covers can run significantly higher than this aftermarket option. You get the same function at a fraction of the cost, with installation that requires no special skills.
For hybrid model owners
The Hybrid variant of the Rogue shares the same bumper design as the standard model. This cover fits both, making it a versatile choice regardless of your powertrain.
6. CZShiYue Car Rear Bumper Tow Hook Cover Volvo XC60 2018-2021
CZShiYue Car Rear Bumper Tow Hook Cover Cap Towing Eye Fit for Volvo XC60 2018 2019 2020 2021 Towing Eye Cap 31449210 398490342 (Black,Right Passenger Side) Xinpinsai
Volvo XC60 2018-2021
ABS Plastic
31449210
Right Passenger Side
Pros
- Perfect fit for Volvo XC60 2018-2021
- Easy direct replacement
- Matches original car appearance
- Multiple color variants
Cons
- Color may not match factory paint perfectly
- Some loose fit reported
- Limited stock availability
The Volvo XC60 combines Scandinavian design with practical functionality. This rear tow hook cover maintains that clean aesthetic while protecting the exposed towing hardware on 2018-2021 models.
The cover replaces OEM numbers 31449210 and 398490342. The right passenger side orientation fits the XC60 as equipped from the factory. ABS plastic construction provides weather resistance and durability.

Most Volvo owners found this cover fit perfectly. The main concern raised in reviews was color matching for vehicles with special paint options. Volvo’s extensive color palette makes perfect matches challenging for aftermarket suppliers.
With only 4 units left in stock at the time of writing, availability may be an issue. I recommend ordering soon if this fits your vehicle.
For owners with common Volvo colors
If your XC60 is finished in black, white, silver, or gray, the color match should be quite close. The cover restores the clean lines of your bumper effectively.
For owners with special order colors
Volvo’s custom color program means some vehicles have unique paint codes. In these cases, consider an unpainted cover option that you can have matched at a local body shop.
7. CZShiYue Rear Bumper Tow Hook Cover Volvo XC60 2018-2021 Unpainted
CZShiYue Rear Bumper Tow Hook Cover Fit for Volvo XC60 2018 2019 2020 2021 Towing Eye Cap 31449210 398490342 (Unpainted, Right Passenger Side) Xinpinsai
Volvo XC60 2018-2021
Unpainted ABS
31449210
Right Passenger Side
Pros
- Perfect fit for Volvo XC60
- Unpainted allows custom color
- Multiple color variants
- Lower price point
Cons
- Requires spray painting
- Color matching issues still exist
- Some loose fit reported
For Volvo XC60 owners who need a perfect color match, this unpainted version provides a blank canvas. The same ABS plastic construction as the painted version offers durability and weather resistance.
By purchasing unpainted, you can have the cover sprayed at any body shop using your vehicle’s specific paint code. This eliminates the guessing game of finding a pre-painted cover that might not match.

The trade-off is additional time and cost for painting. However, for vehicles with special colors or those that have been touched up over the years, this approach often produces the most seamless result.
Multiple color variants are available in unpainted form as well. You can choose the base shade closest to your vehicle and have it clear-coated for a factory-quality finish.
For owners with unique or faded paint colors
If your XC60 has unique factory paint or the color has aged differently than aftermarket options, spending the extra $30-50 to have this cover professionally painted often pays off in appearance.
For owners wanting the quickest fix
If you need a working solution immediately and can accept slight color variation, the pre-painted version of this cover saves time and the hassle of coordinating with a body shop.
8. X AUTOHAUX Rear Bumper Tow Hook Cover Jeep Cherokee 2014-2018
X AUTOHAUX Rear Bumper Tow Hook Cover for Jeep Cherokee 2014-2018 Rear Bumper Tow Hook Eye Cap 68203273AE
Jeep Cherokee 2014-2018
Plastic
68203273AE
Rear Position
Pros
- Perfect fit for Jeep Cherokee
- Easy self-installation
- Waterproof and corrosion-resistant
- Best value vs dealer
Cons
- Security piece may not fit perfectly
- Wrong size/color occasionally reported
- Lower best seller rank
The Jeep Cherokee is built for adventure, and the rear tow hook cover should match that rugged personality. This X AUTOHAUX replacement fits 2014-2018 models and uses part number 68203273AE for verified compatibility.
The durable plastic material is waterproof and corrosion-resistant. This is important for Jeep owners who may expose their vehicles to rain, mud, and trail debris regularly.
At around $6.59, this is one of the most affordable options we reviewed. Jeep dealers charge significantly more for the same part, making this an easy choice for budget-minded owners.
For Jeep owners seeking off-road durability
The waterproof and corrosion-resistant properties make this cover suitable for vehicles that see regular off-road use. It can handle the elements without degrading quickly.
For owners needing exact OE match
Some users reported the security piece that attaches to the tow hook itself did not fit perfectly. If that component is critical for your application, verify compatibility before ordering.
9. CZShiYue Rear Bumper Tow Hook Cover BMW X3 G01 G08 2018-2020
CZShiYue Rear Bumper Tow Hook Cover Towing Eye Cap for BMW X3 G01 G08 2018 2019 2020 51127498525 (Black, Right Passenger Side)
BMW X3 G01 G08 2018-2020
ABS
51127498525
Right Passenger Side
Pros
- Great fit and color match
- Much cheaper than BMW dealer
- Fits better than OEM per some
- Multiple color options
Cons
- Color may not match factory paint
- Quality considered cheap by some
- Low plastic quality reported
BMW X3 owners appreciate precision engineering, and this aftermarket cover aims to deliver that at a reasonable price. It fits G01 and G08 body styles from 2018 through 2020, replacing part number 51127498525.
The right passenger side orientation matches the factory configuration. Multiple color options allow you to choose the shade closest to your vehicle’s finish.
Customer feedback is mixed on quality. Some users report this cover actually fits better than the genuine BMW part they replaced, while others mention the plastic feels thinner than OEM.
For BMW X3 owners on a budget
At around $18, this cover costs a fraction of what BMW dealerships charge. The savings are significant even if the material quality is marginally lower than factory spec.
For owners wanting extended durability
If maximum longevity is your priority, genuine BMW parts use higher-grade plastics that resist UV degradation better. The aftermarket savings come with some trade-off in material composition.
10. labwork Front Bumper Tow Hook Cover Toyota Prius 2012-2015
labwork Front Bumper Tow Hook Cover Lid Cap Primed Left and Right Replacement for Prius 2012 2013 2014 2015 52127-47903 52128-47903
Toyota Prius 2012-2015
ABS
52127-47903
Left and Right Included
Pros
- Includes both left and right covers
- Perfect fit for Prius
- Much cheaper than dealer
- Easy quick installation
Cons
- Comes unpainted - requires spray painting
- Covers may pop out
- Arms not strong enough per complaints
The Toyota Prius is known for efficiency and reliability. This labwork cover fits 2012-2015 models and includes both left and right front bumper tow hook covers in one package.
The primed finish arrives in black or gray and requires painting to match your vehicle. This approach gives you flexibility but adds a step to the installation process.
The 3.9 rating is the lowest on our list, with reviews split between satisfied customers and those reporting covers that pop out or have weak attachment arms. I include it because the value proposition remains strong for the right buyer.
For owners planning to repaint
If you are already planning to paint your bumper or touch up your Prius, having unpainted covers ready for the shop makes sense. You only pay for painting once rather than trying to match pre-painted parts.
For owners wanting immediate solution
These covers arrive in primer only. If you cannot paint them immediately, look for pre-painted alternatives that you can install right away.
11. Goholy Front Bumper Tow Hook Cover Toyota RAV4 2016-2018
Goholy Car Front Bumper Tow Hook Cover Compatible with Toyota RAV4 2016 2017 2018 Trailer Cover Cap 532850R080 532860R080 Trailer Cover Towing Eye Cap Matte Black Right Side
Toyota RAV4 2016-2018
Matte Black
532850R080
Right Side
Pros
- Perfect fit for Toyota RAV4 2016-2018
- Easy alignment and lock installation
- Quality matches original bumper
- ABC plastic with excellent toughness
Cons
- May not fit US model RAV4
- Single report of fitment issue
The Toyota RAV4 is one of the best-selling SUVs in America. This Goholy cover fits 2016-2018 models and replaces OEM numbers 532850R080 and 532860R080.
The matte black finish complements RAV4 vehicles without requiring additional painting. The ABC plastic material provides toughness that holds up to daily driving and occasional cargo loading near the bumper.
Installation is straightforward according to owner reviews. The cover aligns and locks into the existing mounting slots without forcing or modification.
For US-market RAV4 owners
One report indicated this cover did not fit a US model RAV4 properly. I recommend verifying your specific model year and trim level against the product specifications before ordering.
For owners seeking matte finish
If your RAV4 has a matte or textured black bumper finish, this cover should blend seamlessly. The factory-matched appearance avoids the contrast that sometimes occurs with gloss black replacements.
12. CZShiYue Front Bumper Tow Hook Cover Ford Explorer 2011-2015 Unpainted
Front Bumper Tow Hook Cover Towing Eye Cap Fit for Ford Explorer 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 BB5Z17A900A BB5Z17A900APTM (Unpainted, Right Passenger Side)
Ford Explorer 2011-2015
Unpainted ABS
BB5Z17A900A
Right Passenger Side
Pros
- Perfect fit for Ford Explorer
- Good quality matches OEM
- Easy installation
- Affordable price
Cons
- One customer reported fit issues with silver color
- One report of color too light for silver vehicle
This cover earns our Editor’s Choice designation with an impressive 4.7 rating and 87% five-star reviews. It fits Ford Explorer models from 2011 through 2015, including the Police Interceptor Utility variant.
The unpainted ABS construction means you can have it matched to your specific vehicle color. Ford Explorers come in dozens of shades, and this approach ensures a perfect match every time.

Installation is simple with direct replacement design. The same mounting tabs used by the factory part secure this cover in place without any modifications to your vehicle.
Several reviewers mentioned using this cover on both regular Explorers and Police Interceptor Utility models with equal success. The part fits both variants since they share the same bumper design.

For Ford Explorer owners wanting the best quality
The combination of high ratings, solid construction, and paintable finish makes this our top pick. You get reliable performance with the flexibility to color-match if desired.
For silver vehicle owners
One customer with a silver Explorer reported the cover appeared lighter than their vehicle paint. If you have silver, consider having this cover professionally painted rather than relying on the unpainted base.
13. LDCRE Rear Bumper Tow Hook Cover Mazda CX-30 2020-2023
Rear Bumper Tow Hook Eye Cap Cover Compatible for Mazda 2020-2023 CX-30 CX30 Black Textured,Tow Eye Cap Replaces DGH9-50-EL1 DHB450EK1
Mazda CX-30 2020-2023
Textured Black
DGH9-50-EL1
Left Side
Pros
- Fits perfectly like OEM
- Good quality
- Easy to install
- Affordable protection
Cons
- One customer reported does not fit right side
- Plastic reported as thin by one user
The Mazda CX-30 debuted in 2020, and finding aftermarket parts for newer vehicles can be challenging. This LDCRE cover fits 2020-2023 CX-30 models with the textured black finish that matches the factory bumper.
The cover replaces OEM numbers DGH9-50-EL1 and DHB4-50-EK1. The left side designation is critical to verify before ordering, as Mazda offers both driver and passenger side options.

Most owners report a perfect fit that matches the original equipment. The black textured finish blends seamlessly with the CX-30’s rear bumper design.
The main complaint was from a buyer who needed the right side cover and received the left instead. Double-check your vehicle’s side requirement before ordering.
For Mazda CX-30 owners seeking OEM-like quality
The textured finish specifically matches what Mazda uses from the factory. Unlike glossy black alternatives, this cover will not stand out as aftermarket.
For right side requirements
This listing is for the left side only. If you need the passenger side, look for the corresponding right-side part number or search specifically for that orientation.
14. CZShiYue Rear Bumper Tow Hook Cover Mazda 6 Atenza 2018-2021
CZShiYue Rear Bumper Tow Hook Cover Towing Eye Cap Fit for Mazda 6 Atenza 2018-2021 GSH7-50-EL1-BB GSH7-50-EK1-BB (Unpainted, right passenger side) Xinpinsai
Mazda 6 Atenza 2018-2021
ABS Plastic
GSH7-50-EL1-BB
Right Passenger Side
Pros
- Great fit for Mazda 6
- Perfect color match
- Easy installation
- Way less expensive than OEM
Cons
- One customer noted wrong color for their vehicle
The newer generation Mazda 6 Atenza (2018-2021) uses different part numbers than earlier models. This CZShiYue cover replaces GSH7-50-EL1-BB and GSH7-50-EK1-BB for a proper fit on later vehicles.
Earning our Best Value designation, this cover delivers excellent quality at a reasonable price. With an impressive 4.7 rating and 83% five-star reviews, the majority of buyers were highly satisfied.
The right passenger side orientation matches how the newer Mazda 6 is equipped from the factory. ABS plastic construction provides durability without excessive weight.
For Mazda 6 owners seeking best balance of price and quality
This cover delivers OEM-quality fit at a fraction of the dealer price. The high satisfaction rate among buyers confirms the value proposition.
For Soul Red owners
The previous generation Mazda 6 cover had color matching issues with Soul Red. Verify compatibility with your specific paint code if you have this signature color.
15. CZShiYue Rear Bumper Tow Hook Cover BMW X1 E84 2013-2015
Rear Bumper Tow Hook Cover Fit for BMW X1 E84 2013 2014 2015 Towing Eye Cap 51127303815 51127303816 (Black, Left Driver Side) Xinpinsai
BMW X1 E84 2013-2015
ABS Plastic
51127303815
Left Driver Side
Pros
- Fitting was great
- Plugs the hole adequately
- Arrived quickly
Cons
- Quality could be better
- Not flush like OEM
- Color described as dark gray not black
- May be oversized
The BMW X1 E84 (2013-2015) requires specific attention when selecting replacement parts. This cover is designed for non-M Sport packages, which use different bumper configurations than the sportier variants.
The left driver side orientation replaces OEM numbers 51127303815 and 51127303816. ABS plastic construction keeps the weight manageable while providing adequate durability.
Reviews indicate the fit is generally good, though some owners noted the cover does not sit completely flush like the original BMW part. For the price differential compared to dealership parts, many buyers found this acceptable.
For BMW X1 owners prioritizing value
If cost is a significant factor and you can accept minor fit variations, this cover provides functional restoration of your bumper’s appearance at an approachable price.
For M Sport package owners
BMW X1 models with the M Sport package use different bumper designs. This part is not compatible with those vehicles. Verify your trim level before ordering.
How to Choose the Best Replacement Tow Hook Covers in 2026?
Selecting the correct replacement involves more than finding the right part number. Here are the key factors I consider when helping readers choose.
Front vs Rear Covers
Front and rear tow hook covers serve similar purposes but face different conditions. Front covers endure more exposure to road debris, car washes, and parking impacts. Rear covers typically face less abuse but may collect dirt from the trunk opening area.
Verify whether your vehicle has front, rear, or both tow hooks. Some models only have one location, while others have two. Our product list indicates the specific position for each cover to help you order correctly.
Material Comparison
Most aftermarket tow hook covers use ABS plastic, which provides a good balance of durability and cost. Some premium options use reinforced plastics or add UV inhibitors for longer life in harsh sunlight.
Silicone alternatives exist but are less common. They offer flexibility that can help with installation but may not match painted surfaces as well. Metal anodized covers are available for some vehicles but represent a small market segment.
The forum discussions revealed that plastic clips weaken over time from repeated removal and exposure. If you frequently use your tow hooks, consider keeping a spare cover in your glove box. One user mentioned losing covers during a car wash because they had not been secured properly after previous removal.
Paint-to-Match vs Pre-Painted
Pre-painted covers offer convenience but require exact color matching. Even slight variations become obvious on a bumper cover that sits next to matching painted panels.
Paint-to-match (primed or unpainted) covers require an extra step but often produce better results. A body shop can spray the cover using your vehicle’s specific paint code, ensuring seamless blending with the rest of your bumper.
Forum users frequently mentioned paying $200 or more at dealerships for single covers. Aftermarket options typically range from $8 to $20, making the additional $30-50 for professional painting still represent significant savings over dealer parts.
Vehicle Specific Fitment
Always verify the make, model, and year range before purchasing. Some covers also differentiate between trim levels, special packages, or body variants. The BMW X1 cover we reviewed specifically excludes M Sport packages, for example.
When in doubt, cross-reference the OEM part number from your existing cover or your vehicle’s documentation with the aftermarket listing. This prevents frustrating returns and delays.
Installation Tips
Most tow hook covers install without tools. They typically use plastic clips that snap into existing mounting points. Work carefully to avoid breaking these clips during installation.
If your mounting tabs are damaged from a previous cover or from attempting removal, you may need to source new clips. Some owners use small amounts of weatherstripping or foam tape to create a tighter fit if the new cover feels loose.
For related content, check out our guides to winch hook replacements and bull bars if you are looking to upgrade your vehicle’s recovery and protection equipment.
FAQs
What are the hooks on the front bumper called?
The hooks on your front or rear bumper are called tow hooks or tow eyes. They provide a secure attachment point for towing your vehicle. The covers that hide these hooks when not in use are called tow hook covers, tow eye caps, or tow hook caps.
Do I need a tow hook cover?
You need a tow hook cover if your original cover is missing, cracked, or faded. Covers protect the exposed tow hook from dirt, rocks, and moisture. They also maintain your vehicle’s appearance by providing a clean, finished look to the bumper.
What do tow hook covers do?
Tow hook covers serve multiple purposes: they protect the exposed tow hook from corrosion and debris, maintain your vehicle’s aerodynamic profile, and provide a clean factory appearance. They also prevent the hooks from being stolen or lost when not in use.
How to remove a front tow hook cover?
To remove a front tow hook cover, gently pull outward on the edges while supporting the back. The plastic clips release with moderate pressure. Avoid using excessive force as this can break the mounting tabs. Work evenly around the perimeter if the cover resists.
What is the best material for tow hook covers?
ABS plastic is the most common and recommended material for tow hook covers. It offers good durability, weather resistance, and can be easily painted to match your vehicle. Higher-quality aftermarket options may include UV inhibitors for extended life in sunny climates.
Final Recommendation
Finding the best replacement tow hook covers for front and rear bumpers comes down to matching the right part to your specific vehicle. Our top picks cover a range of makes and models, from Ford Explorers to Tesla Model 3s to Mazda 6s.
For most vehicle applications, the aftermarket covers we reviewed provide excellent value compared to dealership prices. You can save $150 or more by choosing a quality replacement instead of OEM parts.
Whether you need a quick fix in matte black or a paintable cover for a perfect color match, the options above give you flexibility without sacrificing quality. For additional protection accessories, consider browsing our selection of car cover locks to keep your vehicle secure.