Unless you drive an electric vehicle, the grille is a very functional part of every automobile. It’s there to provide airflow to your engine bay, making sure to keep things as cool as can be while still providing protection to all of the internal components. But it doesn’t have to just be functional, it can be aesthetic as well. That’s why so many brands design unique grilles that set them apart from competitors, like the 7-slot Jeep grille, the BMW kidney grille or even Kia’s tiger-nose grille.
When it comes to building a custom vehicle, you might want to add a custom grille too. Two of the most popular options you’re going to have to choose from include the traditional mesh style or the modern LED-integrated style. Today we’re going to help you make that decision by highlighting some of the benefits and differences between them.
Mesh Grilles: Timeless Style & Rugged Performance
Mesh grilles are often considered the go-to choice, as they’ve been around for a long time and offer a sleek yet aggressive look while still improving airflow. They provide a classic custom look from fine woven patterns to bold industrial grids, with plenty of different aesthetics from which to choose. They’re also available in a number of different finishes, from aluminum to stainless steel and many options in between, which offer enhanced resistance to corrosion and weather damage.
These options are great for drivers who want a tough and polished look without going over the top with flair, and they work especially well on lifted trucks, off-road rigs and sports cars.
LED-Integrated Grilles: Bold Tech Meets Visual Impact
Speaking of combining form and function, that’s taken to a whole new level with LED-integrated grilles. Not only do they offer the standard amount of airflow to your engine bay, but they enhance visibility by adding more lights to your front end. What kinds of lights they offer depend on what you get, but they could be anything from embedded light bars to accent lights, adding extra daytime running lights no matter what option you choose.
As with most of the lights you might be installing to your custom build, they typically provide programmability which means you can set up certain effects or color options that make your vehicle even more you — which is especially nice if you’re building a show vehicle. Anyone looking to create a futuristic aesthetic with their build could certainly consider an LED-integrated grille.
So, Which Should You Choose?
Which option you choose is ultimately going to come down to your preference. With this comparison, there are no true advantages that make one option better than the other, so you just have to consider your interests and desires and come to a decision.
| Mesh Grille | LED-Integrated Grille | |
| Aesthetics | Classic, Aggressive | Flashy, Futuristic |
| Function | Enhanced Airflow | Enhanced Visibility |
| Installation | Straightforward | Requires wiring, relays |
| Maintenance | Simple | Complex |
| Cost | Wide Range | High End |
Find Your Custom Grille at Glover Customs
Our expert technicians here at Glover Customs are willing and able to help you with any part of your custom build, no matter how big or small. While we love to take your concepts and ideas and bring them to life from the ground up, we’d be just as happy to simply help you find the perfect grille to bring your build together. Whatever your automotive needs might be, we’re here to help. Even if you’d prefer a completely different type of grille, such as the billet style! Just give us a call right here at the Glover Customs sales desk and we’ll get to work.
