what is the panel that is below the rear bumper called? Actually I think that the bumper bolts to it and the license plate holder bolts on to it.

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71 malibu350

i would call it a valence panel.

I call it the rear valance. I just put mine on. The bumper doesn't actually bolt to it, but you are correct the license plate bracket bolts onto it. Two other bolts hold each end to the quarters.

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Stan Hanek
'71 SS - 454 4 sp.
http://www.chevelles.com/showroom/stan71ss_1.jpg
http://www.chevelles.com/showroom/stan71ss_motor.jpg

If it has been hit in a rear end collision, it may called the violence panel.