Will this grille work with an aftermarket bumper or is it bumper-specific?

Factory mounting points remain the same regardless of bumper. This grille bolts to the frame — swap your bumper without touching the grille.

Does the matte finish need any prep or protective coating before install?

The matte black finish ships ready to bolt on. No priming or sealing required. Over time, matte finishes can pick up dust — regular washing keeps it looking fresh.

What comes with the grille — do I need to buy fasteners separately?

Grille assembly only. You'll use your factory hardware to bolt it in place at the existing mounting points.