[mackDBFL]

Seriously though, how much disassembly required to reach the front of this heat exchanger? I appreciate the rock guard but it’s keeping a blanket of bugs over the lower 1/3 of the heat exchanger. I don’t think there’s enough time in the day to keep this clean with tweezers and a 1/2in diameter vacuum tube. I do have a full time job.
This picture shows 3.5 months of accumulated insect carnage from rural/agricultural Oklahoma. I’m prepared to get flamed for letting it get this bad but I’ve been staying at my folks’ farmhouse without access to any of my tools. In a couple months we’ll be moved into a house and have all my normal car care stuff.
I know this is making the cooling system work harder than it needs to, it’s 104-degrees outside at the moment.

 

[VW TECHNICIAN]

If you have time to spare.
On weekends, you can use mesh type of screen. But it will take removal of front plastic bumper.
Or you can do from the outside but will not look pretty.

 

[mackDBFL]

I’m not opposed to using zip-ties and window screen in front of the grille during heavy bug season, but I’m trying to decide which is worse for airflow, a mesh screen over the entire intake, or the lower 1/3 of the heat exchanger being roughly 50% blocked with bugs. If that external mesh gets blocked it affects the entire heat exchanger(s). It’s a shame the belly panel below isn’t easily removed - I’m tempted to make modifications to make it so.
I’m SO glad I did the ceramic coating before moving here, some of these mutant grasshoppers leave a 4-in diameter splat when they’re hit. 🤮

 

[VW TECHNICIAN]

I’m not opposed to using zip-ties and window screen in front of the grille during heavy bug season, but I’m trying to decide which is worse for airflow, a mesh screen over the entire intake, or the lower 1/3 of the heat exchanger being roughly 50% blocked with bugs. If that external mesh gets blocked it affects the entire heat exchanger(s). It’s a shame the belly panel below isn’t easily removed - I’m tempted to make modifications to make it so.
I’m SO glad I did the ceramic coating before moving here, some of these mutant grasshoppers leave a 4-in diameter splat when they’re hit. 🤮

You can salvage radiator screen from Big Semi Truck latest generations. They are sturdy enough ,and they will not create air flow drop. In worst case scenario there is still electric fan that can activate if additional air flow is required ( worst case scenario).
New Western Star trucks that i have seen have great screens for this project.

 

[Huey52]

Every late Fall I had to drop the belly pan on my TTS to clean out front end lodged leafs, etc. It was the only way to get at some of the more stubborn debris as no amount of front needle nose pliers or water/air flush would work. Even then tedious to reach a couple areas.

But then we enthusiasts go where others fear to tread.

 

[3032]

As per @VW TECHNICIAN's suggestion

If you have time to spare.
On weekends, you can use mesh type of screen. But it will take removal of front plastic bumper.
Or you can do from the outside but will not look pretty.

Remove the lower front grille, by lifting the top and bottom tabs at various locations and pull the grille forward.

Cut the grill mesh to the appropriate size. Install the grille mesh behind the lower grille and use silicone to securely fasten it in place.

Note that the one displayed is made of aluminum. However, plastic options are also available.

AggAuto Universal 40 inchx13 inch Car Grill Mesh - Aluminum Alloy Automotive Grille Insert Bumper 6x12mm Rhombic Hole, One of the Most Multifunctional Shape Grids 100x33cm Black, Grille Inserts - Amazon Canada

AggAuto Universal 40 inchx13 inch Car Grill Mesh - Aluminum Alloy Automotive Grille Insert Bumper 6x12mm Rhombic Hole, One of the Most Multifunctional Shape Grids 100x33cm Black in Grille Inserts.

www.amazon.ca

 

[3032]

Another option

22.75US $ 25% OFF|For Volkswagen VW ID.4 ID.4X ID4 2021 2023 Front Center Grille Mesh Insert Net Accessories Protective Radiator Anti Pest Debris| | - AliExpress

Smarter Shopping, Better Living! Aliexpress.com

www.aliexpress.com

 

[mackDBFL]

I did a search but didn’t find this, thanks. Looks like a good project when it cools down this fall.

 

[Huey52]

I have installed radiator/intercooler/oil cooler rock chip protection screens on a number of low slung vehicles that were especially susceptible to same. Relatively low cost and worthwhile DIY.

 

[Vladko]

Can someone please post detailed instructions (pic appreciated) how to remove the center grill? I need to replace it. I did try lifting the tabs and pull out, but it won't move at all. The replacement grill I bought has many tabs to which I cannot find access. Do I have to remove the entire bumper? Plese help! My ID.4 is Pro S AWD 2023

 

[Manybees]

Can someone please post detailed instructions (pic appreciated) how to remove the center grill? I need to replace it. I did try lifting the tabs and pull out, but it won't move at all. The replacement grill I bought has many tabs to which I cannot find access. Do I have to remove the entire bumper? Plese help! My ID.4 is Pro S AWD 2023

Use erWin to download the shop manuals:

https://www.vwidtalk.com/threads/side-mirror-housing-replacement.14103/post-255013