Missing trim piece on front?

[bonzo37027]

On my 09 Highlander Sport, I noticed that the black plastic trim piece just inside the fog light in front of the driver allows air to flow through. On the passenger side, the piece has a back to it.

For curiousity, why is the trim piece in front of the driver missing the back part? I have looked at 5 other Highlanders, and they are all missing the back on the driver's side, while the passenger side piece has a back to it.

Anybody know why?

Thanks,
Jim

[RedLdr1]

Jim,

The open trim piece is to allow air flow for the additional cooling that is part of the factory Towing Package...I assume you have it? At least on the 2008s no opening, no factory Tow Package...

[peterk9]

Originally Posted by bonzo37027

On my 09 Highlander Sport, I noticed that the black plastic trim piece just inside the fog light in front of the driver allows air to flow through. On the passenger side, the piece has a back to it.

For curiousity, why is the trim piece in front of the driver missing the back part? I have looked at 5 other Highlanders, and they are all missing the back on the driver's side, while the passenger side piece has a back to it.

Anybody know why?

Thanks,
Jim

I believe it is part of the cooling system for vehicles equipped with the Tow Prep Package. I just took a look at mine and the opening appears to channel air down to a radiator located just below that fog light assembly. There is also an opening in the lower part of the bumper assembly through which I can see that radiator. I believe it may be for the transmission cooler. All Canadian HL come equipped with the Tow Package as standard equipment. You are not missing a trim piece!

Peter

[YotaRunner4]

Its a NASCAR mod - it reduces down force on the drivers side through the straight-aways

[jimmied]

definitiely enhancing cooling,therefore adding 5+whp depending on humidity and amount of blinker fluid weighing you down.