So, the long awaited update has finally come!
I had time today to work on the rear again. I had to make 2 additional 18mm holes for the rear side sensors and connect back the rear sensors loom.
If you remember, I went on routing the loom on the
right side of the vehicle, as per the OEM location. I then obviously had to re-pin the rear sensors loom so the sensors correspond to the change, as the AliExpress/aftemarket looms are made to be routed on the left side. But then I thought to myself - why not keep the bumper connection as it this, and just route the cable from right to left under the rear cargo carpeting?
So I did that, and it came out perfectly. The loom was long just enough for it to fit, so it feels 100% OEM. You can't see any cables and I'm feeling good about myself taking the OEM route!
Time for some pictures!
Here's me outside with everything taken off. Unfortunately I don't have a good parking spot in my house, so I had to work outside. Sucks, but what can you do!
As I mentioned, I had to cut the two additional rear side sensor holes which are 18mm. For that task, I purchased the OEM Skoda cutting tool (P/N BEA000001) which cost around 20$ shipped - not too bad. The tool is basically a punch with a long screw that you have to put through the bumper (for that you have to drill a premade 8mm holes), and then you screw the cap on the other side and you use an Allen key to screw it slowly until the cap punches through the bumper.
That was really quick and effective, and I was pretty happy with the results. The paint was damageless and the hole that was made looks OEM.
However, I had one issue. It seems
@Cuzoe was right, and the extra .2mm are required. After punching the hole, I tried to put the sensor in without the bracket.
It barely fit. I had to really push it through, and it still wasn't flush. Only then I realized the hole has to be 18.2mm for it to sit flush. I took a picture for you guys so you can see what I'm talking about.
This is when I pushed it all the way through and it was still not flush.
Nevertheless, I still managed to put them in eventually. The 3M double sided tape bracket that the kit came with are
shit and worthless. I had to add a large amount of superglue for them to fit as they were just not sticking (and yes, I did clean the mounting area with APC and wiped it off). So, I suggest investing in the OEM sensor brackets or a good glue and to wait some minutes before mounting the sensors.
This is the final result. Not 100% perfect, I'd say probably 90%. If you want 100% - there's no way other than purchasing a genuine bumper with premade PDC holes (there's a PR for that).
And of course - a demonstration video for you guys:
So, what's next?
Unfortunately, with my work, I don't have a lot of time during the week so I leave the weekends to work on my car.
I plan to do the front sensors next week, but before that, I want to de-pin the harness and route the cables. Only then, I'll take off the front bumper, drill the holes and mount the front sesnrso.
I'll be back with more updates.
Stay safe everyone, cheers.