April 17, 2026
Description
The FL5 iteration of the Civic Type R introduced open vents to the front fenders. However, these vents are large enough to allow road debris to pass through, potentially damaging the side panels. While high-end performance OEMs typically integrate mesh within such aerodynamic features to prevent this, the FL5 lacks this protection.
This design is far from a standard commercial product. It took seven physical iterations to achieve what I consider "OEM-level" fitment. I started with a 3D print from Thingiverse (shoutout to Justin!), but I felt it could be improved. What started as a small tweak turned into a quest for perfection.
The challenge lies in the fender's geometry. While a basic shape is easy to replicate, a close inspection reveals a 3mm step at the bottom clip. Without accounting for this, the guard wouldn't sit flat, forcing the clip to compensate for the extra thickness. Additionally, I’ve added a specific cutout at the top to ensure the guard sits perfectly flush within the side groove. After some final refinements and material optimization, the result is a perfect-fit aero guard.
Prototypes: Printed in PLA. I tested these on several casual drives and they felt remarkably sturdy. If you only have PLA or PETG, they should hold up fine for a while, and since it’s only a 2-hour print, they are easily replaceable.
Final Version: I used ColorFabb HT Black. This is my go-to for durable parts; it’s incredibly resilient and, in my experience, superior to ASA. It pushes my old Creality CR-10S to its limit, but the results are "eternal."
Specs: The hexagonal mesh has a 2mm thickness with 1.2mm walls, making it compatible with both 0.4mm and 0.6mm nozzles. I have used a 0,4mm nozzle, but 0,6mm nozzle would be more appropriate.
Compatibility: At least a 220mm square build plate (or bigger), diagonally.
Be advised: If you attempt to remove the OEM clips from the fender rubber (above and below the vent hole), you will likely break them. Even with the right tools and experience, these clips are extremely brittle and don't seem designed for reuse.
To avoid a headache (like a broken clip head falling inside the fender), I recommend buying replacements in advance.
Honda Part Code: 91512-SX0-003 (available easily on AliExpress or at dealers).
Advice: Take a deep breath, break the old ones out, install the guard with fresh clips, and enjoy!
I’ve included a video of the ALPLUS aero guard installation. It’s an excellent guide for this process. While the video suggests you don't have to move the wheels, doing so provides much better access.
Pro Tip: You'll need to remove the two clips surrounding the vent hole, the two bolts behind it, and the bolt underneath. Interestingly, the person in the video manages not to break the clips—don't expect the same luck! As many have reported online, breaking them is the standard experience.
License:
Creative Commons — Attribution — Noncommercial — Share Alike
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