{"title":"3rd Gen Hilux Surf \u0026 4Runner Bonnet Protectors (1996–2002)","description":"\u003cp\u003eBonnet protectors and bug deflectors for the 3rd Gen Hilux Surf \/ 4Runner (N180\/N185, 1996–2002). The bonnet on a 3rd Gen sits in the firing line of stone chips, bug splatter, and the kind of corrugated dirt-road grit that pits paint within a season. A bonnet protector is one of the cheapest, easiest mods you can fit — and one of the few that pays for itself the first time the paint stays clean.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch2\u003eFitment\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eEvery protector on this page is direct-fit for the 3rd Gen Hilux Surf \/ 4Runner, 1996–2002 (N180\/N185), including KZN185, RZN185 and VZN185. Mounts to the factory bonnet edge using clips and rubber buffers — no drilling, no adhesive.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch2\u003eWhat's In This Collection\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eAirplex tinted acrylic bonnet protectors (cross-fits 2nd, 3rd and 4th Gen on some models), the OEM-style tinted protector, and the bundle deals where the protector pairs with LED side indicators for a discount. Each listing shows the tint depth and the mounting hardware included.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch2\u003eWhy Choose Surf Syndicate\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eAirplex is one of the brands we trust on these trucks — locally made, tinted to a level that doesn't darken your bonnet view, and built to last NZ UV exposure. Every protector on this page has been clipped onto a real 3rd Gen to confirm the mounting points line up. NZ shipping, fast.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch2\u003eFAQ\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWill it damage the paint?\u003c\/strong\u003e No — the mounting hardware uses rubber-faced clips on the bonnet edge. Some buyers add a strip of helicopter tape under the contact points for extra paint protection on long-term installs.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDoes it affect airflow into the radiator?\u003c\/strong\u003e No — the protector sits flush with the bonnet leading edge and creates a small lip that deflects bugs and stones upward.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTinted or clear?\u003c\/strong\u003e Tinted is more common on the 3rd Gen and matches the factory styling. Clear is harder to find for this generation.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe right home for searches like '3rd gen hilux surf bonnet protector', 'KZN185 bug deflector', 'airplex 4runner bonnet protector NZ', 'hilux surf bug deflector' and 'N185 stone chip protector'.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eShop similar collections:\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/2nd-gen-hilux-surf-bonnet-protectors-1990-1995\"\u003e2nd Gen Bonnet Protectors (1990–1995)\u003c\/a\u003e | \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/3rd-gen-hilux-surf-bonnet-struts-1996-2002\"\u003e3rd Gen Bonnet Struts (1996–2002)\u003c\/a\u003e | \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/3rd-gen-4runner-hilux-surf-front-grilles-1996-2002\"\u003e3rd Gen Front Grilles (96–02)\u003c\/a\u003e | \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/3rd-gen-4runner-hilux-surf-window-visors-1996-2002\"\u003e3rd Gen Window Visors (96–02)\u003c\/a\u003e | \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/3rd-gen-4runner-hilux-surf-body-panels-1996-2002\"\u003e3rd Gen Body Panels (96–02)\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","products":[{"product_id":"hilux-surf-bonnet-protector","title":"Airplex Bonnet Protector for Toyota Hilux Surf \/ 4Runner 130 Series \/ 185 Series \/ 215 Series | 2nd, 3rd \u0026 4th Gen 89-05","description":"\u003ch1\u003e\u003cb\u003eStop Paying The \"Stone Chip Tax\": Protect Your Surf with Genuine NZ-Made Airplex Armour\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/h1\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e\u003cb\u003eThe sound of a stone hitting your windscreen is the sound of money leaving your wallet.\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn New Zealand, it’s not a matter of \u003ci\u003eif\u003c\/i\u003e you’ll get a stone chip, it’s \u003ci\u003ewhen\u003c\/i\u003e. Whether it’s the loose chip-seal on SH1 or the gravel on a back-country track, your Hilux Surf’s front end is a giant target.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA single flying rock can lead to:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003e- The Spider-Web:\u003c\/b\u003e A cracked windscreen that results in an instant WoF failure and a $500+ replacement bill.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003e- The Rust Spot:\u003c\/b\u003e A deep chip on your bonnet’s leading edge that turns into a bubbling rust hole thanks to the NZ humidity and Salt Spray.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003e- The Respray Bill:\u003c\/b\u003e Thousands of dollars to fix \"sandblasted\" paintwork.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e\u003cb\u003eThe Airplex Advantage: More Than Just Aesthetic\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhile a dark-tinted protector makes any Hilux Surf look 10x tougher, the \u003cb\u003eAirplex Bonnet Protector\u003c\/b\u003e is actually a piece of precision-engineered aero-equipment.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e\u003cb\u003e1. The \"Aero-Flick\" Windscreen Protection\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eUnlike cheap, flat imports, Airplex guards are molded with a specific \"flick\" at the trailing edge. This creates an aerodynamic upsweep, launching stones, debris, and massive NZ bugs \u003cb\u003eover\u003c\/b\u003e your roof instead of into your glass. It’s the closest thing to an invisible force field for your windscreen.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e\u003cb\u003e2. Leading-Edge Armour\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe first 3 inches of your bonnet take 90% of the road's abuse. This guard acts as high-impact armour for that vulnerable edge, keeping your factory paint mint and protecting the resale value of your truck.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e\u003cb\u003e3. Genuine NZ Made (Auckland Original)\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAirplex has been the \"Gold Standard\" in NZ since the 80s. These are UV-stabilized, heavy-duty acrylics designed to survive the harsh Kiwi sun without fading, cracking, or turning brittle like cheap eBay alternatives.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e\u003cb\u003eWhy This is a \"Must-Have\" for Your Surf:\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eZero Drilling:\u003c\/b\u003e Uses existing factory holes. If you can use a screwdriver, you can install this in 10 minutes over a beer.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eCustom Fit:\u003c\/b\u003e Not a \"universal\" one-size-fits-none. These are specifically molded for the 2nd, 3rd, and 4th Gen Hilux Surf.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eTough Aesthetics:\u003c\/b\u003e Nothing finishes off the front end of a Surf like the classic Dark Tint look.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eEasy Cleaning:\u003c\/b\u003e Specially designed brackets allow you to clean under the protector easily so dirt doesn't get trapped.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e\u003cb\u003eSpecifications:\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eMaterial:\u003c\/b\u003e High-impact, UV-stabilized Acrylic.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eColor:\u003c\/b\u003e Dark Tint (also available in Clear by request).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eFitment:\u003c\/b\u003e KZN130 (Gen 2), KZN185 (Gen 3), N215 (Gen 4).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eIncluded:\u003c\/b\u003e All heavy-duty mounting hardware and easy-to-follow instructions.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e\u003cb\u003eDon’t wait for the \"CRACK\" to happen.\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eReplacing a windscreen or repainting a bonnet is a massive headache. For a fraction of the cost, you can bolt on a piece of NZ-made insurance that looks as good as it works.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eCompatibility\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e✘ 1st Gen Surf \/ 4Runner 83 - 88\u003cbr\u003e✔ 2nd Gen Surf \/ 4Runner 89 - 95\u003cbr\u003e✔ 3rd Gen Surf \/ 4Runner 96 - 02\u003cbr\u003e✔ 4th Gen Surf \/ 4Runner 03 - 09\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eSpecifications\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003ctable\u003e\n\u003cthead\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eSpec\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eDetail\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\u003c\/thead\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eMaterial\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eHigh-impact, UV-stabilised acrylic\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eColour\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eDark Tint (Clear available by request)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eCountry of manufacture\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eNew Zealand (Airplex)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/tbody\u003e\n\u003c\/table\u003e","brand":"Airplex","offers":[{"title":"2nd Gen l 89 - 95 \/ Clear","offer_id":42457345523870,"sku":"2GENCLEAR","price":197.0,"currency_code":"NZD","in_stock":false},{"title":"2nd Gen l 89 - 95 \/ Tinted","offer_id":42553579536542,"sku":"2GENTINTED BG216DB","price":197.0,"currency_code":"NZD","in_stock":true},{"title":"3rd Gen l 96 - 02 \/ Clear","offer_id":42457345491102,"sku":"3GENCLEAR","price":197.0,"currency_code":"NZD","in_stock":false},{"title":"3rd Gen l 96 - 02 \/ Tinted","offer_id":42553579569310,"sku":"3GENTINTED BG298DB","price":197.0,"currency_code":"NZD","in_stock":true},{"title":"4th Gen l 03 - 05 \/ Clear","offer_id":42480121479326,"sku":"4GENCLEAR","price":197.0,"currency_code":"NZD","in_stock":false},{"title":"4th Gen l 03 - 05 \/ Tinted","offer_id":42553579602078,"sku":"4GENTINTED","price":197.0,"currency_code":"NZD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0599\/3280\/3230\/files\/ChatGPT_Image_Jul_30_2025_07_37_43_AM_5d029e52-7d3c-47ce-812c-65eaa0152913.png?v=1753818282"},{"product_id":"bonnet-protector-monsoon-combo-l-3rd-gen-96-2","title":"Bonnet Protector \u0026 Weathershield \/ Monsoon Guard Bundle for Toyota Hilux Surf \/ 4Runner KZN185 \/ RZN185 \/ VZN185 | 3rd Gen 96-02","description":"\u003cp data-start=\"104\" data-end=\"199\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"104\" data-end=\"199\"\u003eBundle \u0026amp; Save 10%\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"201\" data-end=\"466\"\u003eProtect your Surf and enhance its style with this \u003cstrong data-start=\"251\" data-end=\"286\"\u003eSurf Syndicate exclusive bundle\u003c\/strong\u003e, combining two practical upgrades every 4WD owner needs: a \u003cstrong data-start=\"346\" data-end=\"366\"\u003ebonnet protector\u003c\/strong\u003e and a full set of \u003cstrong data-start=\"385\" data-end=\"420\"\u003eweathershields (monsoon guards)\u003c\/strong\u003e—now with \u003cstrong data-start=\"430\" data-end=\"441\"\u003e10% off\u003c\/strong\u003e when purchased together.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"468\" data-end=\"584\"\u003eBuilt for the \u003cstrong data-start=\"482\" data-end=\"531\"\u003e3rd Gen Hilux Surf (KZN185 \/ RZN185 \/ VZN185)\u003c\/strong\u003e, this combo is the perfect mix of form and function.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr data-start=\"586\" data-end=\"589\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-section-id=\"19ds0g0\" data-start=\"591\" data-end=\"614\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"595\" data-end=\"614\"\u003eWhat's Included\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul data-start=\"615\" data-end=\"968\"\u003e\n\u003cli data-start=\"615\" data-end=\"769\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"617\" data-end=\"769\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"617\" data-end=\"645\"\u003eAirplex Bonnet Protector\u003c\/strong\u003e – Guards your bonnet and paintwork from stone chips, bugs, and debris while adding a tough, clean look to your front end.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-start=\"770\" data-end=\"968\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"772\" data-end=\"968\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"772\" data-end=\"818\"\u003eWeathershields \/ Monsoon Guards (Full Set)\u003c\/strong\u003e – Deflect wind and rain so you can crack the windows without water getting in—ideal for off-road touring, daily driving, or overnight camping setups.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003chr data-start=\"970\" data-end=\"973\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-section-id=\"ybv2zv\" data-start=\"975\" data-end=\"994\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"979\" data-end=\"994\"\u003eWhy Bundle?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul data-start=\"995\" data-end=\"1294\"\u003e\n\u003cli data-start=\"995\" data-end=\"1029\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"997\" data-end=\"1029\"\u003eSave \u003cstrong data-start=\"1002\" data-end=\"1009\"\u003e10%\u003c\/strong\u003e when you buy both\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-start=\"1030\" data-end=\"1095\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1032\" data-end=\"1095\"\u003eCustom fit for \u003cstrong data-start=\"1047\" data-end=\"1093\"\u003e1996–2002 Hilux Surf (3rd Gen, 185 Series)\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-start=\"1096\" data-end=\"1157\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1098\" data-end=\"1157\"\u003eSleek, tinted finish on weathershields for a premium look\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-start=\"1158\" data-end=\"1232\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1160\" data-end=\"1232\"\u003eEasy installation with included mounting hardware—no drilling required\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-start=\"1233\" data-end=\"1294\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1235\" data-end=\"1294\"\u003eDurable, UV-stable acrylic designed for harsh NZ conditions\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003chr data-start=\"1296\" data-end=\"1299\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1301\" data-end=\"1525\" data-is-last-node=\"\" data-is-only-node=\"\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"1301\" data-end=\"1368\"\u003eGet rugged good looks and real-world protection in one package.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr data-start=\"1368\" data-end=\"1371\"\u003ePick up the \u003cstrong data-start=\"1383\" data-end=\"1425\"\u003eBonnet Protector \u0026amp; Weathershield Combo\u003c\/strong\u003e today and get your 3rd Gen Surf road- and trail-ready—with a little extra cash left in your pocket.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eCompatibility\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e✘ 1st Gen Surf \/ 4Runner 83 - 88\u003cbr\u003e✘ 2nd Gen Surf \/ 4Runner 89 - 95\u003cbr\u003e✔ 3rd Gen Surf \/ 4Runner 96 - 02\u003cbr\u003e✘ 4th Gen Surf \/ 4Runner 03 - 09\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eSpecifications\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003ctable\u003e\n\u003cthead\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eSpec\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eDetail\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\u003c\/thead\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eWeathershield Material\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eUV-stable Acrylic\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\u003c\/tbody\u003e\n\u003c\/table\u003e","brand":"Surf Syndicate","offers":[{"title":"2nd Gen l 89 - 95 \/ Clear","offer_id":45810196054174,"sku":"BNTMNSBUNDLE1","price":339.0,"currency_code":"NZD","in_stock":false},{"title":"2nd Gen l 89 - 95 \/ Tinted","offer_id":45810196086942,"sku":"BNTMNSBUNDLE2","price":339.0,"currency_code":"NZD","in_stock":true},{"title":"3rd Gen l 96 - 02 \/ Clear","offer_id":45810196119710,"sku":"BNTMNSBUNDLE3","price":339.0,"currency_code":"NZD","in_stock":false},{"title":"3rd Gen l 96 - 02 \/ Tinted","offer_id":45810196152478,"sku":"BNTMNSBUNDLE4","price":339.0,"currency_code":"NZD","in_stock":true},{"title":"4th Gen l 03 - 05 \/ Clear","offer_id":45810196185246,"sku":"BNTMNSBUNDLE5","price":339.0,"currency_code":"NZD","in_stock":false},{"title":"4th Gen l 03 - 05 \/ Tinted","offer_id":45810196218014,"sku":"BNTMNSBUNDLE","price":339.0,"currency_code":"NZD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0599\/3280\/3230\/files\/ChatGPTImageJul30_2025_07_37_43AM_efc0e28b-a270-4bf4-b845-7b55eafc5750.png?v=1753821033"}],"url":"https:\/\/www.surfsyndicate.co.nz\/collections\/3rd-gen-hilux-surf-bonnet-protectors-1996-2002.oembed","provider":"Surf Syndicate","version":"1.0","type":"link"}